Saigon and Swedish, multi-platinum producer Fredro release another track from their upcoming EP, The Jordan Era, channeling the musical ethos from one of the most romanticized periods in pop culture history. After the initial release of “Lyrical Genius” featuring Grandmaster Caz (co-author of “Rappers Delight” and the emcee with the longest running tenure atop the billboard Hot 100 Charts), the duo then released “Get Loose” featuring the legendary Pete Rock, with Saigon channeling the frenzied, experimental sound of hip hop from the early 90’s. In like manner, this latest effort,”Think Twice,” sees the duo recruit another great from hip hop’s golden age in Brand Nubian‘s Grand Puba.
Saigon and Fredro recruit another hip hop great for their latest release “Think Twice.”
Saigon and Grand Puba Make you “Think Twice”
“Think Twice” follows a similar recipe as the rest of The Jordan Era. In fact, you can hear “Think Twice” in season 3 episode 2 of the Starz breakout hit show BMF, chronicling the late ’80’s and ’90’s rise of the real life BMF drug empire. Staying true to the era Fredro comes with the jazz-inspired, funky production that littered the late ’80’s and ’90’s in hip hop. Moreover, Saigon and Grand Puba’s purposeful delivery are matched by their equally apt rhymes.
Keeping in theme with ’90’s lore, the duo drop plenty of knowledge along with their fair share of hip hop braggadocio. However, the purposeful record maintains an overall uptempo, positive and knowledgeable tone. While hip hop has evolved over the years, one of the main downturns in the genre has been the lack of positive messaging in contemporary music. In light Saigon, Fredro and Grand Puba look to bring back the times with this latest effort.
Growing up, Brand Nubian was one of my favorite groups, and Grand Puba as a solo artist shaped and molded my fashion sense at that time, and he is my favorite artist of all time. Grand Puba has never gotten his due respect. Before Kanye, it was Puba who made the rugby with the knapsack look cool. He also always made sure there was some kind of a positive message in his music.
– Saigon
The Jordan Era sees production entirely from Fredro, while sonically honing in on the 10-year from 1986 through 1996. Additionally, the album features guest appearances from Grandmaster Caz, Pete Rock, Big Daddy Kane, Kool G Rap, Grand Puba, Sadat X, Rockness Monsta, Craig G, Ill Skratch—with more features set for reveal upon release. The Jordan Era will be releasing on May 3 via Payday Records.
Kingston-based rock band Hide and Shine announced the release of their debut single, “Detroit Rising” along with their upcoming debut album Soft Machines. The single is out now on all streaming services with the debut album releasing on June 7.
Hide and Shine call themselves the stewards of this kind of music, tasked with translating the images and commands of the unconscious world, into the sounds and words of this world. The sounds reflect a range of themes, across seven decades of American and British music. Their lyrics often hint at esoteric themes.
The band recorded and produced their debut album and had the great privilege of mixing it with Steve Albini. The next batch of 14 songs is already being recorded, prior to the debut being released. There is much work ahead.
The track begins with an energy and has tones reminiscent of Queens of the Stone Age. “Detroit Rising” has a consistent, punching drumbeat, dynamic riffs throughout, and a very catchy and fun set of lyrics. The track is a promising debut from an all-new rock group. There is definite influence from classic rock and also alternative, indie, and hard rock. There are elements of southern rock twang, alternative overdrive tones, and other little nuances of various genres. The track is quite catchy and brings me excitement to see what else Hide and Shine can produce.
For more information on Hide and Shine and to stay in tune with future releases like their upcoming debut album Soft Machines, click here.
In the heart of Rochester, the Kodak Center underwent a transformation from a serene theater to a pulsating temple of rock guitar mastery as Joe Satriani and Steve Vai, two legends of the genre, graced the stage for an evening that would etch itself into the memories of all in attendance. The last time Vai played this venue was in 2022.
Everyone could feel the anticipation as fans settled into their seats with an early door open time of 6pm. Suddenly, the lights dimmed, and a hush fell over the crowd as Steve Vai, with his signature charisma, merged onto the stage. The first chords of “Avalancha,” a powerful track from his latest album Inviolate, reverberated through the venue, instantly igniting a fervor among the audience. Vai’s virtuosity knew no bounds as he effortlessly navigated through his setlist, each song a testament to his unparalleled skill and showmanship. From the intricate melodies of “Building the Church” to the soul-stirring “Tender Surrender,” Vai held the audience captive with his mesmerizing performance.
But Vai was not alone in his musical journey. Alongside him stood a formidable ensemble of musicians: Dante Frisiello on guitar, Philip Bynoe on bass, and Jeremy Colson on drums. Together, they formed a tight-knit unit, their synergy evident in every note they played. As Vai dazzled the crowd with his guitar acrobatics, his bandmates provided the perfect backdrop, their thunderous rhythms driving the momentum of the performance.
Yet, what truly set Vai apart was his ability to connect with his audience on a deeper level. With every flick of his wrist and every bend of a string, he invited the crowd into his world, forging an intimate bond that transcended the confines of the stage. Whether he was exchanging playful banter with his bandmates or locking eyes with fans in the front row, Vai made each person in the audience feel like they were part of something special.
As Vai’s set drew to a close, the energy in the theater reached a fever pitch, leaving the audience hungry for more. But before they could catch their breath, the stage was set ablaze once again, this time by the one and only Joe Satriani.
From the moment Satriani stepped into the spotlight, it was clear that he meant business. Dressed all in black, with his iconic sunglasses perched atop his head, Satriani exuded an aura of confidence and command. With his bandmates Kenny Aronoff on drums, Bryan Beller on bass, and Rai Thistlethwayte on keyboards and guitar by his side, Satriani launched into a set that was nothing short of electrifying.
Each song was a masterclass in guitar wizardry, from the searing riffs of “The Extremist” to the haunting melodies of “Always With Me, Always With You.” But it was Satriani’s infectious energy and genuine passion for his craft that truly set him apart. As he tore across the stage, his fingers flying effortlessly across the fretboard, Satriani seemed to be in his element, a man possessed by the music.
But perhaps the most remarkable aspect of Satriani’s performance was his unwavering smile. Throughout the entire set, Satriani wore a grin that could light up the darkest of rooms, a testament to his sheer joy in sharing his music with the world. And as he closed out the evening with a series of collaborative performances alongside Vai, the mutual respect and admiration between the two guitar virtuosos was evident for all to see. The first encore song was a song written by both Satriani and Vai. It was titled “The Sea of Emotion part I”, that was released on March 29.
As the final notes faded away and the curtain fell, the audience was left breathless, their hearts still pounding with the echoes of Satriani and Vai’s epic performance. For those fortunate enough to bear witness to this musical spectacle, it was more than just a concert, it was an experience that would stay with them forever, a testament to the enduring power of rock ‘n’ roll.
Steve Vai Setlist: Avalancha > Building the Church > Little Pretty > Tender Surrender > Lights Are On > Zeus in Chains > Teeth of the Hydra > For the Love of God
Joe Satriani Setlist: The Extremist > Surfing With the Alien > Satch Boogie > Sahara > Nineteen Eighty > Flying in a Blue Dream > Blue Foot Groovy > Always With Me, Always With You > If I Could Fly > Ice 9 > Encore: The Sea Of Emotion, Pt. 1 (with Steve Vai) > You Really Got Me (The Kinks cover, with Steve Vai) > Enter Sandman (Metallica cover, with Steve Vai)
UPCOMING Vai/Satriani TOUR DATES
April 16 – Detroit, MI @ Fisher Theatre
April 18 – Chicago, IL @ Chicago Theatre
April 19 – Cincinnati, OH @ Andrew J. Brady Icon Music Center
April 20 – Fort Wayne, IN @ Embassy Theatre
April 21 – Indianapolis, IN @ Murat Theatre (Old National Centre)
April 23 – Milwaukee, WI @ Riverside Theater
April 24 – Minneapolis, MN @ State Theatre
April 25 – Des Moines, IA @ Des Moines Civic Center
April 26 – Springfield, MO @ Gillioz Theatre
April 28 – La Vista, NE @ The Astro
April 29 – Salina, KS @ Stiefel Theatre
April 30 – St. Louis, MO @ The Factory – St. Louis
May 1 – Kansas City, MO @ Uptown Theater
May 3 – Austin, TX @ ACL Live at The Moody Theater
May 4 – Dallas, TX @ Music Hall at Fair Park
May 5 – Houston, TX @ 713 Music Hall
May 7 – Denver, CO @ Paramount Theatre – Denver
May 8 – Salt Lake City, UT @ Delta Hall at Eccles Theater
May 10 – Valley Center, CA @ Harrah’s Resort Southern California – The Events Center
May 11 – Wheatland, CA @ Hard Rock Hotel & Casino
May 12 – Santa Rosa, CA @ Luther Burbank Center for the Arts
Bryant Park announces the 2024 lineup for its free summer performing arts series: Bryant Park Picnic Performances presented by Bank of America. The annual festival will feature 25 live music, dance, and theater events between May 31 and Sept. 13. All shows are free and casual with no tickets required with more than 700 picnic blankets for audience members to borrow and ample chairs available.
Photo Credit: Ryan Muir.
Picnic Performances has grown to become one of New York City’s foremost outdoor performing arts festivals. Last summer, more than 75,000 people attended the series and nearly half a million enjoyed the free performance livestreams. Bryant Park Picnic Performances has become a vital outdoor platform for the City’s arts institutions, showcasing long-standing partnerships with Carnegie Hall, New York City Opera, Harlem Stage, The Town Hall, and Joe’s Pub, as well as new partnerships with New Victory Theater, World Music Institute, and Belongó.
The Bryant Park 2024 season features GRAMMY winners, world-class dance companies, theater stars, celebrations of centenaries in jazz and opera, a James Bond-themed finale, and dozens of local artists and spotlight performers from Ghana, New Orleans, Mexico, and South Africa.
“Thanks to Bank of America’s support, Picnic Performances has become a summer tradition for tens of thousands of New Yorkers. There is no easier way to enjoy this city’s exemplary arts and culture: just join us on the lawn” said Bryant Park’s president Dan Biederman.
Picnic Performances Leon Bostein leads the American Symphony Orchestra performing at Bryan Park’s Picnic Performances, 9/7/2023. Photo by Chris Lee.
Highlights of the Bryant Park 2024 Picnic Performances include the New York City Opera honoring the 100th anniversary of the death of Giacomo Puccini with a two-night celebration of his music featuring orchestra, chorus, and star vocalists. The summer of Puccini continues with a fully staged production of Tosca in August. Internationally acclaimed dance companies – including Mark Morris Dance Group, Ronald K. Brown/EVIDENCE, and David Dorfman Dance – headline multiple evenings of Contemporary Dance alongside established, rising, and student companies.
Jazzmobile celebrates the Centennial of legendary jazz vocalist Sarah Vaughan, “The Divine One,” with a jubilant performance by the acclaimed vocalist Charenée Wade and her septet. Carnegie Hall Citywide presents five concerts in July and August, beginning with a special evening with Pulitzer-Prize-winning composer Tania León and The Harlem Chamber Players with special guests. Carnegie Hall will also present the acclaimed South African musician Thandiswa Mazwai, GRAMMY Award-nominated bandleader of The Late Show Band Louis Cato, the high-energy Afrojazz trailblazer Michael Olatuja and Lagos Pepper Soup, and red-hot salsa dura band La Excelencia.
Photo by Fadi Kheir.
Joe’s Pub brings rising theater stars Jaime Lozano and Florencia Cuenca for Broadway en Spanglish, featuring bilingual performances of iconic show tunes with Mariachi Real de Mexico and more guest stars TBA. As part of New Victory Theater’s summer series New Victory Dance, Ephrat Asherie and Barkin/Selissen Project join for an interactive dance event curated specifically for kids and families. World Music Institute welcomes Ghanaian highlife band Gyedu-Blay Ambolley (NYC debut).
Asian American Arts Alliance features MacArthur ‘Genius’ pianist Vijay Iyer and his trio. The beloved Bryant Park tradition Accordions Around the World returns with 2024 GRAMMY nominee Zydeco star Dwayne Dopsie and Latin funk band Afro Dominicano. American Symphony Orchestra kicks off its season with Beyond the Hall, a program highlighting music from beyond the confines of the traditional concert hall.
Finally, The Town Hall and Belongó celebrate John Barry’s iconic James Bond music with an all-star lineup of musicians led by Arturo O’Farrill with the Afro-Latin Jazz Orchestra, and composer arranger and slide trumpet master Steven Bernstein, together with exciting surprise special guests.
The Picnic Performances are one of the best ways for New Yorkers to get outdoors and celebrate the arrival of Spring and Summer. We believe that the arts are a unifying force that promote cultural understanding, and we are thrilled to continue our support of one of the most iconic green spaces in the city. We are excited to be, once again, the presenting sponsor of the Picnic Performances, marking a more than 10-year-long partnership with Bryant Park.
José Tavarez, president, Bank of America New York City.
This season, 16 shows will be live-streamed for free on Bryant Park’s social media channels and website, reaching national and international audiences. Additional media support is provided by public radio stations WBGO and WQXR.
Food and drink are available for purchase from a curated lineup of local vendors near the lawn. At all performances, attendees can discover new dishes and celebrate classics from the five boroughs with a rotating line-up of artisanal vendors by Hester Street Fair. Stout NYC offers light bites and beer, wine, and non-alcoholic beverages for purchase.
Additional artist and performance information will be available in the coming months. For the most current information please visit here.
NYC-based pop/indie-rock band Um Jennifer? released their debut EP titled, The Girl Class, released on April 5.
The group’s debut extended play is chock full of charming, energetic, punk-tinged indie rock. Each song on the album is different than the last, with its own sound and charm. There is clear influence from The Cure, Eyedress, Sonic Youth, MGMT, and more. Much of their songs are reminiscent of love, sexuality, adventure, and youth.
Elijah and Fig set out to pierce the soundscape with their sharp-witted, psyche-puncturing, and simply fun musical skill. The EP does exactly that. The Girl Class collection of songs is an ode to break ups, freak outs, and deep queer longing. Um Jennifer? utilizes their pop/indie/alternative sound to convey their dynamic range of song.
Throughout TheGirl Class EP, love is personified as something fantastic, gory, loud, needy, and needed. These songs were all written within the past year of the band’s life, and were the first songs they wrote together. These songs are the band’s attempt at measuring the immeasurable; at understanding themselves, each other, and the world around them.
Um Jennifer? has conveyed their ideas and vibe as a band well on this EP. They have proven their ability to switch sound and still remain original and themselves. With a debut album like this, with punchy, catchy, emotional, and passionate tracks, the band catches attention and has an audience awaiting further release.
ABBA’s music was center stage at Proctors in Schenectady on Thursday, April 11, as ABBA The Concert: A Tribute to ABBA, began their tour and kept the Swedish disco pop legacy alive. The show was riddled with outfit changes, energy and music to get the audience out of their seats, and the closest you can get to the real thing.
As the lights dimmed, the band walked out to crowd cheers. The setlist was filled with ABBA favorites including “Gimme! Gimme! Gimme!” and “Lay All Your Love On Me,” as this tribute band brought the excitement with them. Following each era of ABBA’s music were an outfit change including bright colors, sparkles and patterns. There was a mixture of dancing and singing throughout the evening, followed by acoustic songs that brought tears to the audience’s eyes.
To finish an extraordinary night of 70’s favorites, “Dancing Queen” got everyone out of their seats. As the band left the stage, the crowd danced their way to the exit, hearing the audience comment “They were so amazing,” and “I forgot it wasn’t ABBA.”
This was truly a night none will forget, with songs stuck in our heads for years to come.
Brass Power House group Too Many Zooz returned to the scene where it all began on Saturday, April 6 as the trio concluded their self titled album tour in epic fashion.
Retail Therapy is the band’s first album in almost five years, and we had the opportunity to ask one of the bands founding members, Matt Muirhead, about their new album, life for a band that’s been together for 10 years, and what’s next for the acclaimed trio.
The album came together more than a year ago now…generally I think our goal was just to create as much as possible, and then spend the following months trimming the fat and deciding what we wanted to keep and sculpt out, and what to get rid of.
Matt Muirhead, Too Many Zooz
Songs like “Subway Devil Blues” off their latest work and their previously released “Subway Gawds,” the roots of Too Many Zooz can be traced 10 years back to the bustling music scene in the NYC transit system, they all met as working musicians in the subway system. Despite their continued success, the band’s iconic brass and beats sound can still be heard echoing through the tunnels as they busk regularly to this day.
The subway is where we came from. It shaped our music and us as people equally. We’re very grateful for the people of New York for loving us and supporting us to this day.
Matt Muirhead, Too Many Zooz
The band consists of Leo Pellegrino, David “The King of Sludge” Parks, and Matt Muirhead. They self describe their sound as “brasshouse”, and appropriately so. Leo and Matt bring brass of varying tempos while The King of Sludge provides the perpetual beat. The vibe transcends labels as it encorporates a fusion of jazz and percussion with EDM house music. Asking about their songwriting style and process, Matt said the following:
There isn’t a set formula for us-every song is different and how they come to fruition is seemingly unique each time. Of course, over the years you start to develop habits as writers, but we try to approach each song as its own and give it the love and energy it deserves.
Matt Muirhead, Too Many Zooz
The evening at Brooklyn Bowl opened with a strong solo performance by Michael Wilbur, a long time collaborator and frequent guest star. Joining TMZ shortly after his own set, Michael was featured on Retail Therapy, and he has toured alongside them with his own band, Moon Hooch. Michael was not the only guest of the evening, as the band brought out a dynamic percussion duo that brought the evening to a whole new level.
…for me, collaboration is the thing that excites me most about the creation process…. there’s nothing more dismal than sitting in a studio by yourself . Collaborations are such a special and beautiful thing and each one is new and different so for me, I was thrilled to be able to have so many friends on the project.
Even within Too Many Zooz internally, I think what makes our bands sound so unique is the inherent creative collaboration between just the 3 of us- we all have different backgrounds and experiences and we believe in a musical democracy where those sources of inspiration can intertwine, sprout, and grow into something beautiful.
Matt Muirhead, Too Many Zooz
Too Many Zooz went viral in 2014 when a passerby recorded their performance at Union Square Station. Whether it’s their distinguishable sound, or Leo P’s classic showmanship, its clear that they have captured the publics attention, converting viewers into passionate fans. They regularly tour around the country, in the festival circuit, and play abroad. From inside the subways, to venues to around the world, their connection to the fans is undeniable.
I love our fans and am endlessly grateful for them and their support. It blows my mind sometimes how lucky we are to have such loyal fans that continue to show love all these years later. On stage, our connection is immediate . We’re definitely a band that feeds off of energy. If the crowd is crazy, the show will probably be that much crazier. Off stage, we’ve been fortunate to meet some really cool, funny, interesting people who happen to be fans of us and generally speaking I feel confident in saying that our crowds are some of the more accepting, welcoming, and warm people I’ve ever had the chance to play for
Matt Muirhead, Too Many Zooz
Being on the road and playing music together for so long, life and art are bound to blend together. When asked about what their biggest challenge as a band was, Matt reflected “This band as been an enormous learning experience in regards to working with people and truly understand teamwork.”
I was a kid when we started this band and I look back and laugh at who I was. Next to my parents and loved ones, I’ve learned more about myself and who I want to be from Leo and Sludge than anyone in my life. They have been and continue to be monumental sources of inspiration to me on and off stage
Matt Muirhead, Too Many Zooz
Retail Therapy is out now and is available for streaming. For fans who missed out on their tour, you can catch them this summer as they join Coheed & Cambria and Primus on select dates this summer. Tickets are on sale now.
On Monday, April 8, Joe’s Pub Annual Gala celebrated 25 years of artistic excellence and support for up-and-coming talent. The dynamic creative community of New York City came together in style.
Vuyo Sotashe & Chris Pattishall | Credit David Andrako
Joe’s Pub, a program of The Public Theater, has been a shining light for performers since it started in 1998. They welcome everyone from up-and-coming talents to Grammy Award-winning icons like Adele and Alicia Keys. The event’s proceeds supported vital initiatives like New York Voices and Joe’s Pub Working Group. Along with the Vanguard Award & Residency, all are committed to developing the next wave of creative talent.
Ellen Winter | Credit David Andrako
Angélique Kidjo, the incomparable five-time Grammy Award winner and 2024 Vanguard Resident, was the star of the evening’s spectacular lineup of performances. Members of the Joe’s Pub Working Group for 2023–2024, including Queen Esther, Ellen Winter, and Firas Zreik, as well as former New York Voices members Omar Offendum, Vuyo Sotashe, and Chris Pattishall, joined her on stage. Angélique Kidjo’s incredible performance was without a doubt the high point of the evening; it was a fitting homage to her legacy and the inventive spirit that characterizes Joe’s Pub.
L-R Ashley Meeks/Joe’s Pub; Firas Zreik; Sienna George; Ania Washington/Joe’s Pub; Ellen Winter; Audrey Frischman/Joe’s Pub | Credit David Andrako
Joe’s Pub Working Group and similar programs give local artists the space they need to develop new ideas. Some of the talent supported in this hub are Ellen Winter, Firas Zreik, and Queen Esther.
The dedication to artistic freedom, diversity, and innovation will keep influencing how New York City’s cultural scene develops in the years to come. Cheers to another 25 years of incredible shows, creative partnerships, and treasured memories at Joe’s Pub.
The Ashokan Center in Olivebridge, NY announced their first-ever Earth Fest hosted on April 21 from 12 to 4pm.
Earth lovers of all ages are invited to the Ashokan Center for a variety of family-friendly and planet-focused activities. This includes a birds of prey demonstration, hands-on educational workshops, story readings, nature crafts, art-making activities, guided hikes, and live music presented by Shokoloko.
Ravensbeard Wildlife Center will host an educational birds of prey demonstration at 12:30pm spotlighting their rescued and rehabilitating birds. Ravensbeard provides wildlife rehabilitation for injured, ill and orphaned animals in order to return them back to the wild.
Earth Fest features a guided hike around Cathedral Gorge. The trail passes relics of the recent and prehistoric past, including a 19th-century water mill, a 130-year-old covered bridge, and a glacial gorge, before it ends at a 80-foot waterfall. Folks can enjoy this day filled with art, music, nature, and food regardless of financial situation.
No one will be turned away for lack of funds, but any donation is appreciated. The Ashokan kitchen plans to serve savory vegetarian dishes to all. Various workshops are in store including Ink Making and Drawing with Natural Materials, Patching & Upcycling Clothes, and Nature Art. These workshops are hands-on and are encouraged for people of all ages.
For more information on Earth Fest 2024 on April 21 and to select tickets, click here.
In the formative years of hip hop, where the DJ reigned supreme, skill was the only testament to success. And if that world remained Mister Cee’s name would be commonplace in contemporary folklore. However, much like the rest of the entertainment industry, the glory goes to whomever fans see holding the mantle. Hip hop resembles the sports world in that sense. The MVP trophy holder gets all the credit, no matter the invaluable contributions of coaches, trainers and lesser-known role players.
In like manner, if an album goes number 1 then the name on the cover has accomplished a great feat. Notwithstanding, hip hop much like sports is a collaborative effort. One rapper can’t make a great album. It takes a team of producers, engineers, marketing experts and much more to propel a body of work to critical-acclaim. However, before any rapper reaches that point they need someone to believe in them and connect them to the industry.
This is where Bedford-Stuyvesant native and hip hop purist Mister Cee made his greatest contributions to the game. In the world of hip hop, Mister Cee–born Calvin LeBrun on August 17, 1966–was a connector. Someone who was a fan of the genre and pushed it forward several times over. Although, his talents as a DJ were second-to-none. Ultimately he was “the finisher because, you know, after he plays, the party’s over. You can’t go on after him,” according to Peter Rosenberg, protege and Hot 97 cohort of the legendary DJ.
Thus, in a sense his meticulous mixes featuring rare freestyles and album cuts was a microcosm of his overall presence within hip hop. After all DJ’s aren’t inherently creators, hip hop emerged from the turntable masters putting soul records together in a rhythmic, uptempo groove. Nonetheless, the connections made with sampling and knowing which records sounded best for scratching set the stage for hip hop.
Mister Cee The Connector
Alongside the other proprietors of hip hop’s golden era, Mr. Cee lived and bled the genre and along the way served as a connector for two of hip hop’s most influential acts. Beginning with Big Daddy Kane, who Mr. Cee connected with in high school and served as a DJ for beginning in the late ’80’s. With his connections to the Juice Crew, the fabled hip hop collective â spearheaded by producers Mr. Magic and Marley Marl â who introduced several legendary acts to the scene including Big Daddy Kane, Mr. Cee had successfully helped one of hip hop’s revered lyricist get on. As a testament to this, Mr. Cee notably featured on Big Daddy Kane’s classic debut album on the track “Mister Cee’s Master Plan.”
🙏🏿R.I.P to the legend MR. Cee God bless him, to all his family and friends I send my condolences. 🕊️ pic.twitter.com/poOcoaruVe
Moreover, the one known as “The Finisher” is widely recognized as the man who connected the Notorious B.I.G. with Puff Daddy and what eventually became Bad Boy Records. The rest as they say is history, but history’s nuance is rarely discussed. Hence, Mister Cee’s contributions to the career of arguably the greatest rapper ever remains stuff of legend. Yet, as he kept his ear to the streets as a local celebrity, he became known for showcasing rising acts. Along the way he came across the Notorious B.I.G. — who at the time went by Biggie Smalls– and connected him to the industry while also serving as an early producer for the legendary rhymer.
So Cee would definitely want me to credit Biggie’s first DJ, who was a guy named 50 Grand. And while Biggie and 50 Grand were working on a demo, doing their thing, Mister Cee was the DJ who was actually connected to the industry. He was the one who could get him different places, and he played the connector for Biggie. Sometimes it’s more complicated than rapper and DJ or artist and DJ, whatever it may be. There are these other people who play roles, and Cee was a connector for Biggie Smalls.
Furthermore, as he settled into his role as a tastemaker for hip hop, he enthralled listeners with his “Throwback at Noon” mixes on Hot 97. Which then became a staple of the lives of fellow hip hop enthusiasts. As his legend grew his moniker of “The Finisher” felt more apt than ever. With the April 10 passing of Mister Cee, hip hop lost one of its purists, someone who selflessly pushed others and the genre forward. As hip hop grew from local neighborhood parties to a worldwide phenomenon, Mister Cee’s contributions as one of the genre’s vanguards must not be forgotten.
Like, you knew you were listening to a guy who believed in every word that he was saying. But one thing that has to be stressed – I have never – in my now 30 years of DJing, I have never known a more meticulous, prepared deejay than Mister Cee
