#arablak

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My Brother's Keeper - Atlanta's Most Influential 2010 PT.1

Ok, Ok, Ok!!! Wildstyle, Breakin', Graffiti Rock, Beat Street... were just a few to capture the Hip-Hop culture on the "Big Screen" in it's early stages, but who are Atlanta's starring crew? I mean who are the people that keep Atlanta's Indie scene alive from day to day? You know the "go-getters" and "trendsetters" of the different tiers and facets of our beloved local Hip-Hop scene? I decided to put my money and time, where my heart was and honor these people by presenting them with award plaques and throwing a show called "My brother's Keeper" . Tag teaming w/ the "Temple of Hip-Hop's" own Minister Server and bringing the legendary "Cold Crush Brothers" for "MBK" show #2. Show #1 was thrown in 2008 at Atlanta's own Apache cafe. S/O to Unique Squared for sponsoring part of this historical 2010 event... "And the winners are"... Enjoy!!!

MY BROTHER'S KEEPER 2010 SHOW RECAP

1. GOLDI GOLD - GRAPHIC DESIGN (GRAFFITI ARTIST) Golden Aurelien loses sleep for the sake of his craft at least once a week , year round. Better known as "Goldi Gold", born in Newark and raised in East Orange, New Jersey. This extremely talented visual artist would later end up in Atlanta. Goldi's work first started receiving praise &  attention when he started using internet communities as virtual galleries for his artistic projects. His online gallery showing  grew larger after getting plenty of  encouragement from fellow artist, Miya Bailey. Bailey is  a world-class tattooist and  fine artist who also owns "City of Ink" , Atlanta's flyest Hip-hop driven tattoo shop and art gallery (located downtown Atlanta). Simply complex is just one way to describe Goldi Gold’s work. With crisp lines and bold colors, he created his own Hip-Hop influenced style... detailing features and making colors splash into one another in a way that is unique and exciting. Goldi learned basic computer graphics at Art institute of Atlanta before being kicked out. He managed using what he learned in class mixed series of trial and error attempts. As a youth, Goldi adopted a love for early Hip-Hop artists such as Rakim, Kool G Rap and PoSdonus. He also admires & adores the work of comic book artists Frank miller and Mike Zeck. Goldi’s work is closely related to the work of Emory Douglas, the Black Panther Party’s Minister of Culture from 1967 to the 80s.   Golden's work has been featured in various magazines... including Urban Ink, Ozone, Brother’s Perspective and Crunk. Not to mention the numerous amount of notable art shows, Goldi is staying well grounded in his craft... as a visual soothsayer. Goldi Gold is currently in the creative process of piecing together a book titled "Complex Simplicity", a collection of work that will drop sometime 2011. "The Man with the Golden Hands" is also founder & head fashion designer for his urban hip-hop fused clothing line: Jungle45 , featuring the latest urban wear  & a tag-a-long cultural blog (junglejem45.blogspt.com). If, Golden Aurelien is not traveling in a "Art, Beats + Lyrics" art show or designing images for a Hope for Haiti Benefit, FTP (feed the people) event , he's probably just  getting ready to save the world. Goldi , we admire & salute you! Congratulations!!!

GRAPHIC ARTIST HONORABLE MENTION 2010

Dubelyoo

Miya Bailey

Mr. Soul

Flux

DTM(Dan the Man)

I WORK , BEFORE I GO TO WORK !

2. ZULU QUIC- B-BOY/B-GIRL (ZULU NATION)

Miguel "Quic" Rojas infamously known as B-boy Quic, was born and raised in the ever so colorful borough of the Bronx in New York City. Being Puerto Rican during the 80’s and 90’s in the birth place of Hip Hop, Quic found himself always exposed to different music, culture and dance. His family love to dance salsa and his sister got him involved with hip hop at a very young age. By the time Quic turned 18 he started his first B-boy crew in Atlanta, Ga... which is now known as the "Funk Lordz". Eight years later he has traveled, performed, battled and taught across the country. Planting seeds allowed the "Funk Lordz" to spread & represent Quic’s vision now in seven cities across the globe. In 2006 he became a member of the Universal Zulu Nation by joining the MZK chapter (Mighty Zulu Kingz) who are the originators of B-boying (break dancing) dating back to the 70’s and are now the most influential dancers on the planet. At that point, Zulu Quic became the highest ranked B-boy in Georgia... but Quic was not satisfied and decided to move back to NYC for a spell to find the true roots and his reason for dancing. Building with legends & originators helped him progress in his unmatchable routines & swift movements. Quic is currently back in Atlanta  and runs his own "Atlantis Zulu Chapter", as well as the "Funk Lordz". He continues to teach, battle & perform with grass root organizations to high-end corporations and legendary artists such KRS One, Talib Kweli, Methuzulah, Atlanta Hawks, National Black Arts Festival, Kenneth Cole, Macy’s, Kulturez, Y3, Scion, Adidas to to name a few. It's not a hobby for Zulu Quic... it's a lifestyle. He also is CEO of a Clothing company named "Kulturez" alongside his brother Mayan Tamang. Plus, he is the very future for the Atlanta LowLow scene. Quic means to Hip-Hop, what the cardboard box did to Crazy Legs in 1984! Zulu Quic, we admire & salute you! Congratulations!!!

B-BOY/B-GIRL HONORABLE MENTION 2010

MENDEZ

MR. COOL

ZAPPER

B-GIRL SEVERE

AFRICANO

FUNK LORDZ VS. BURN UNIT

3. DJ RASTA ROOT- DJ (PRODUCER/MANAGER)

Born with the name Dion Liverpool and originally from Canada, Dj Rasta Root relocated to Atlanta where he happened to find success and solace on the radio, in the club, and the corporate event scene. Rasta Root has been rocking the decks for over 15 years. Roots has an extensive music library archived with countless genres and a magician-like knack to play the right music at the right time for any crowd.  His worldwide eclectic style and virtual ability to read his audience comes mainly from a three year DJ tour of Japan. While performing night after night in venues and concerts he learned the importance of  appealing to both his Japanese fans and American audiences. Still to this day he takes the same approach with every performance by analyzing each audience and playing the exact tunes that crowd wanted to hear. Also an accomplished and decorated producer, he owns a production label: Smokin’ Needles Records and has composed tracks for the Dallas Mavericks’ and was hand selected to attend and work at the Red Bull Music Academy in Rome, Italy. Not to mention Roots has also spun in Europe, Phillipines, Canada, US, and most of the Caribbean. He currently controls the turntables and produces for the likes of A Tribe Called Quest's Phife Dawg. Together with Phife, they run Smokin' Needles Records. Rasta Root produced the first single from Smokin' Needles in 2003 called 'U Know U Want It', which also features label affiliates Jax, Hawkeye, and Slick & Rose. Roots also plans to be 1st in the beat placement line for the highly anticipated reunion album by A Tribe Called Quest. Rasta Root, Phife, and Jax previously departed to Japan for the "Smokin' Needles 2003 Winter Tour", which was a success. They entertained US military bases and local Japanese hip hop fans. You can catch Roots on stage with Phife, in the Dj booth or at a packed club anywhere around the world. He has also opened shows in Japan for the likes of Redman, Nas, Busta Rhymez, and the Wu-tang Clan. In Atlanta, he quickly made his name through the local club circuit, opening for artists such as KRS-One, Noriega, A Tribe Called Quest and Rakim. Roots found an early home for himself on 88.5FM WRAS on "The Bomb", at Georgia State University. which was 100,000 watts and at the time... the biggest college signal in the US. Finally, Rasta Root had got his chance for the city of Atlanta and the surrounding areas to hear his ill mixes and dope blends. Under Smokin' Needles, Phife and Roots would form a unique dj/mc team, with Phife handling mic duties and Roots holding down the sounds. They rock parties from NY to Tokyo utilizing their Caribbean roots to spice up any hip hop or dancehall event. Roots is the resident dj at Atlanta's MJQ and has rocked there with the likes of Quest Love, Bobbito, Rich Medina, and many other legendary hip-hop notables. In 2004, Rasta Root took over the management of Phife. Together they appeared on Midway Games "NBA Ballers" on a track called "NBA Ballout". In 2006, Roots started his monthly residency at MJQ with his own night called "Face-Off Fridays". This event teams him up with some of Atlanta’s greatest djs to provide the scene with many memorable fun-filled Friday nights. Rasta Roots management roster has included Phife, A Tribe Called Quest, Cheryl Boyce-Taylor, Chip, and Slick & Rose.Sooner or later Roots' this roster will aid him in launching Riddim Kidz Management company. Rasta Root is a true musical genius and a ninja-like multi-tasker. Dj Rasta Root, we admire & salute you! Congratulations!!!

HIP-HOP DJ HONORABLE MENTION 2010

DJ DUG BOOGIE

DJ KEMIT

DJ FUDGE

DJ SOL MESSIAH

DJ GHOST

DJ RASTA ROOT IN THE PHILIPINES

4. 4-IZE - EMCEE (RECORDING ARTIST)

Born Tony Hayes III this lyrical sorcerer hails originally from the West Suburbs of Chicago (Oak Park), Illinois. 4-IZE focuses on using every letter and every word as a verbal weapon in his uphill battle to reach success in the music industry. Wearing glasses used as his third eye to see his way through the deepest depths of the world. 4-IZE , ironically took what was once an unfortunate insult as a child, and uses it as his "moniker". It serves as a ongoing constant reminder of how he learned self-confidence in his struggle to be a genuine individual. 4-IZE began rapping in 1991 and was in a group known as the "Loudmouth Hooligans", a group that included "Ludacris". Together they began performing at local hometown events, talent show competitions and record company sponsored showcases. In 1999, 4-IZE relocated to Atlanta, GA in order to further his musical career. Hip-Hop fans have already experienced a taste of 4-IZE’s lyrical abilities and onslaught on both 3X Platinum albums by Def Jam South recording artist, Ludacris. 4-IZE was a major contributor to the phenomenal album sales of "Back for the First Time", in 2000 and "Word of Mouf", in 2001. 4-IZE released his debut album "Fantastik 4-IZE" as a heavily online based project in 2007 on iTunes. 4-IZE is currently an unsigned indie  artist with major industry affiliation, and an extremely strong underground following, worldwide. If 4-ize isn't writing , recording or performing... he's silently planning his attack! 4-IZE, we admire & salute you! Congratulations!!!

EMCEE HONORABLE MENTION 2010

STANZA

ARABLAK

DILLON

EKUNDAYO

G.R.E.A.T SCOTT

4-IZE IN THE LAB W/ 9TH WONDER

5. SPEAKEASY-PROMOTIONS (BOOKING AGENT)

Born into the world Brannon Boyle and representing as a "Atlanta Baby", Speakeasy runs the one of city's dopest underground promotions and booking companies. He manages to book & promote shows, design flyers, and direct videos.  B.Easy seems to always have a lot going on. So, instead of writing a lengthy paragraph I decided to list some of his past business endeavors and dopest shows to date... the list is rather long! Word!

Here's the list of some of the venues, parties, and artists he's worked with: Apache CafeCenci529The Loft5 SpotMasqueradea3c Hip Hop FestivalEastside LoungeDrunken UnicornCenter Stage Goodie MobSnoop Dogg / Slightly StoopidBone ThugsDevin the DudeRaekwonGZAMethod Man and RedmanCamp LoPeople Under the StairsEdanC Rayz WalzTanya MorganJeru the DamajaJohn RobinsonCount Bass DJ-LiveMayer HawthorneJedi Mind TricksQwelBilalThe Foriegn ExchangeArt, Beats, and LyricsDiamond DOpioThemselvesEyedea and AbilitiesHealthIndian JewelryGeorge Clinton and Parliament FunkadelicLittle BrotherRJD2Lightning BoltAriel PinkMimosaFree Moral Agents2mexJoell OrtizBlack SheepRah DiggaNottzMethuzulah Some reoccurring shows:Hip Hop Jam Session at Apache Cafe every TuesdayAtlanta Funk Society every Monday at the 5 SpotThe Speakeasy event series. (#10 tba)Free Acid at the 529 (#2 tba)Stay Productive (#3 tba)

Speakeasy, we admire & salute you! Congratulations!!!

PROMOTER HONORABLE MENTION 2010

STRONGARM MANAGEMENT

FADIA KADER

TAJ ANWAR

RAS KOFI

RASHEEDA ALI

RAEKWON LIVE IN ATLANTA (PERFORMING "HOUSE OF FLYING DAGGERS")

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My Brother's Keeper - Atlanta's Most Influential 2010 PT.2

Peace, "Party People"!!! Right back at you like we never left. Previously on part 1 to this entry, "Atlanta's Most Influential" we discussed our favorites for the following categories: Graffiti/Graphic Artist, B-Boy/B-Girl, Dj, Male Emcee,  & Hip-Hop promoter. In this second half, we'll cover our favorite's in these following categories : Female Emcee, Producer, Hip-Hop Group, Host, and "Gone but not Forgotten". In comparison, the people named in this article alongside part 1 are truly the next in line to be mentioned with the likes of moguls such as: Lauren Hill, Queen Latifah, Nas, Outkast, EPMD, Frosty Freeze, Crazy Legs, Grand Wizard Theodore, Dj Scratch, Rakim, Zephyr, Revolt, Lady Pink, DONDI, Fab Five Freddy, Arthur Armstrong, Ray Chandler, The Cassanova's , Marley Marl, Dj Premier and so on... Let's get into the winners! 6. ILLASTRATE - HIP-HOP PRODUCER

Corey Presley a.k.a lllastrate Productions is a transplant from Fort Wayne, Indiana: a small town of about 250,000 people. Making beats & production wasn't always the focus or goal for this talented music maker, Illastrate started out as an emcee rapping, performing at High School talent shows with local crew "Outta Order". Later on they ended up forming a bigger crew called C.O.C. which gained much local attention in '97 when they dropped the album "The Nuthing". Sales from that project allowed him to purchase his first sampler and beat machine while he was attending college at Ball State University. He was kicked out of school due to his overwhelming love for beats and production. Shortly after, he ended up returning to Fort Wayne and dedicated most of his time to digging in crates and learning the true craft of hip hop production. Studying the likes of Ali Shaheed Muhammad, DJ Scratch, DJ Premier, The BeatMinaz, Dr. Dre, Pete Rock and any other high quality hip hop music he could get a hold of. He honed and sharpened his skills in the small city over the years, and finally decided to move to a bigger market (Atlanta) to his knowledge and understanding of music. After working with a few artist in Atlanta, his break came when Buddy Lee a member of the Hip-Hop group "Broady Champs", listened to a Illastrate beat tape, while both attending AIU college. The veteran Hip-Hop crew brought him in and he produced most of their official debut album "Breakfast of Champions" which was released on Day By Day Records in 2004. The album was well recieved by underground cultured listeners and was considered to be a true diamond in the rough or new found gem. Along his journey, Illastrate has been able to produce for artist such as  Akir, Tiye Phoenix, Dynas, Boog Brown, J-Live, Doitall, The Invizzibl Men and Methuzulah. Not to mention him co-executive producing the critically acclaimed Dynas LP, "The Apartment" (released on BBE) which boasted production by mogul producers like Jazzy Jeff, Illmind, 9th Wonder, J-Dilla and himself. In 2009 he released the first record off of his own imprint Working Class Music, The Black Noise LP, which featured Emcee Aarophat, formerly of Pockets Linted. The album was heralded and upheld in the underground circuit as a breakthrough classic, and was also named #1 album of 2009 by Bloggerhouse.net. He also produced heavily on one of the most groundbreaking artists of 2009: Boog Brown alongside lending production on Adrift De Belle's Garden State Parkway LP and "Lords of the Underground's", Doitall, on his solo effort "American Du". The song is entitled "Negrociations" and featured another Hip Hop legend Treach from "Naughty By Nature". 2010 is the year he decided to release his second project from Working Class Music "Eddie Coleman's: Friday Night Theme Music". Which is a Hip-Hop influenced instrumental album that features collaborations with musicians and vocalists such as Rock Most, DJ Amdex (Clan Destined), Richelle Scales, Grand Prize Winners From Last Year, Lyric Jones, Poodie The Byz, Jeffmatic and Fatima Washington. The album is his celebration of dealing with life's ills and coming through it all. The albums feels something like jazz mashed with the grit and rawness of 90's hip hop. 2011 is already looking bright as he has just placed production on the new album from J-Live, and has numerous projects in the works on his Working Class Music label such as Boston emcee Arablak, Jersey native Methuzulah (formerly Mojo Swagger). Illastrate is soon to drop his own compilation called "High Gravity" that features: Clan Destined (Domination Recordings), Kam Moye, J-Live, Boog Brown (Mellow Music Group), Methuzulah, Grind Time fame Ness-Lee and a host of others. Keeping his production, high quality and having a steady output is the main goal for this Midwest beatsmith as Working Class Music becomes a true force to be reckoned with. Illastrate, we salute you!!!

HIP HOP PRODUCER HONORABLE MENTION

D.R.U.G.S

SOL MESSIAH

FLOYD THA LOCSMIF

CLAN DESTINED

SMKA

ILLASTRATE INTERVIEW

7. BOOG BROWN - FEMALE EMCEE

Atlanta's based Boog Brown opens up her Pandora's Box of “Dope Girl Magic” like her life truly depended on it. Currently working in Atlanta, Detroit native Boog Brown is not only an emcee, but a poet and publisher. Even though she has been an emcee for only roughly 4 years, her writing goes back to the age of 14.  Some of her the work between then and now are included in these following projects: "My Life In Words", "Black Tie Fish Fry", and her debut 2007 mixtape release entitled "Extended Play".  Here's a shameless plug or disclaimer, people; Boog Brown is meant for this Hip-Hop and proves to you on each next edition. With tracks like "The Essence", "Dope Girl Magic" and "The Mirror", just to name a few of her most sought. Boog has collaborated with highly noted HipHop artists and more than talented producers such as Illastrate, Rita J, Aarophat, Apollo Brown, Invincible, Stahhr, Methuzulah, and 14KT, who has previously describes her voice as “the illest.” Boog has since been spotlighted in numerous print publications including Creative Loafing, The Industry Crusher Magazine and also on various blogosphere sites such as features on ATLHipHop.net and TheFembassy.com. Not to mention, Boog Brown's classic track "The Essence appeared" on BET's documentary "My Mic Sounds Nice". Boog recently released a mixtape, entitled "The Grind Season", in Early 2010... and in addition, she describes her debut album "Brown Study" released off of (Mello Music Group), which was a collaborative soulful project with Hip Hop producer Apollo Brown. The the all so infamous, Hiphop site BloggerHouse said this about Boog Brown and the Brown Study project: "Boog will undoubtedly draw comparison’s to Jean Grae" and "her flow is effortless, she laces her rhymes with clever wit and most importantly, her vulnerability and honesty shines through on each track". The first single off of Brown Study is the soulful and sensual “Just Be", a spiritually touched magical whisper that floats over Apollo Brown’s soulful and perfectly placed samples. Powerful and vibrant lyrics such as “Enraptured in the scent/ This is bliss at length/ From start to the finish/ Euphoric/ Absorbed in the ebullience/ Elegant every sense awakened” form a bond with Apollo Brown’s sampled softly laid horns, slow sweeping strings, and ambient chimes. "Just Be" is most definitely a song that exudes and encompasses real passion and deeply rooted feelings. Brown is working harder and harder by the day and will soon be considered and mentioned alongside names such as: Bahamadia, MC Lyte, Queen Latifah, not to mention the ever so notable Lauryn Hill, and Missy Elliott. Boog Brown has somehow taken the best qualities from some Hip-Hop's best talents and meshed that together with the realities of her everyday life and made classic music! Boog Brown, we salute you!!!

FEMALE EMCEE HONORABLE MENTION

STAHHR

ADRIFT DA BELLE

LYRIC JONES

SA-ROC

KHALILAH ALI

BOOG SPITS ACAPPELLA VERSE

8. BINKIS RECS - HIP HOP GROUP

Flux da Wundabat, Killa Kalm, Dj Mafioso and the shadowing spirit of the ever so lyrically inclined, Jax da Catalog forms Binkis Recs. BLAMMMM! "Binkis Recs was created due to the lack of creative and honest hip-hop music", is exactly what the Binkis Recs mission statement proclaims. In 1997 in the mist of over heated battles of “NBA LIVE 97″ Binkis was born. Jax and Flux decided they wanted to participate in the hip-hop game, and decided “Binkis” would be the name to use. The word "Binkis" is an acronym for "Before Ignorant N*ggas Killed Intelligent Songs". Based in Atlanta, Binkis has New York's wittiness, alongside Chicago's soul, blended with the South's energy and roots to form a powerful conglomerate. Similar to Jurassic 5, Prophetix, and The Roots: Binkis Recs has gained a strong following for rocking hard when performing at live shows. Binkis previously released a project on Day By Day Entertainment (home of MF Grimm, Prophetix, Rodan, etc), which was a debut LP entitled "The Reign Begins". While most of the production was handled by Binkis Recs, John Doe also contributed to their slightly vintaged album. Songs like "Bullitt", "Wundaluv", "Testimonial","Out The Box" are all first picks. The collective members of Binkis Recs also decided to release solo albums by themselves. Flux released "The Many Moods Of Mister Flux", Jax released "J.F.K. (Jax Forever King)", and a few others. Binkis Recs also has a couple compilation CDs, "How Many Lumps 1" and "How Many Lumps 2". Also Dj Mafioso (Atlanta's Latin Soul Brotha Number One) has projects to look out for like: Jungle 45 Mixtape “Keep Your Eye on the 45″, "Jax Tribute Mixtape"(in memory of Jax the Axe Handler) just to name a few. With out a doubt Binkis Records is an Atlanta Hip-Hop household name. Binkis Records, we salute you!!!

HIP HOP GROUP HONORABLE MENTION

CLAN DESTINED

STARCHILE

THE 5IVE

PASSPORT

THE WHEELER BOYS

BINKIS RECORDS SAMPLER

9. FORT KNOX - HIP HOP HOST

Fort Knox, also known as David Freeman is a breathe of fresh air directed in from New York City and bottled, pure, unadulterated positive energy and surprisingly enough manages to channel it correctly everywhere he goes. His customer service like, upbeat personality is a definite genuine character trait and is the main reason everybody can't get enough of him? Positivity has given him the power and aligned him with the likes of: B.O.B., Yelawolf, Raekwon and Bone Thugs-N-Harmony as well as organizations such as ASCAP and Nationwide Insurance. He also recently starred in the independent film "Pathways" and "Laying My Past to Rest”. A graduate of the Atlanta Broadcast Institute, Fort Knox also does voice over work. With a variety of projects on the way, he truly continues to somehow define: while defying the word "entertainer."Fort Knox is also one half of Strong Arm Management which is an conglomerate type artist management company. Which also specializes in branding, marketing and promotions. Strong Arm Management was formed as collective alongside by Big Tah in 2006. Both of them are more than familiar with managing, they collectively having been putting in work for 10+ years. Their experience and knowledge resulted in enabling them to work with both independent and major acts such as up and coming emcee Stanza and WMG artist Ms. Brown... from a marketing and promotions standpoint, Strong Arm Management not only markets and promotes their artists but also create events such as "Tru Skool ATL", "Producer's Swap Meet" and "Kulture Bizarre". Strong Arm Management has established itself as one of Atlanta's premier entertainment companies and will continue to maintain a substantially heavy presence in the game abroad. Fort Knox, we salute you!!!

HIP HOP HOST HONORABLE MENTION

MS. DIA

DRES THA BEATNIK

JAY FORCE

SENOR KAOS

RAS KOFI

FORT KNOX & BIG TAH INTERVIEW

10. JAX - GONE BUT NOT FORGOTTEN

Originally from Queens, Ny... Rochdale Village to be exact. Jax grew up around early traditional "Wildstyle" Hip Hop. As young boy born into the world named Christopher Thurston, he began listening to all the classic radio shows and watched some of television's most memorable Hip Hop shows such as Video Music Box, Yo! MTV Raps, Rap City, etc. Years would pass and he began Art and Design School. During that same time "Mobb Deep" was flourishing in Hip Hop and he met up with his soon to be longtime music and business partner, Flux. In '94 he came down to Atlanta and went to Clark Atlanta University. Then got with the N.E.B.L.O.S. Crew and formed Binkis Records in 97. In '99 he dropped his 1st album and then 4 more albums would follow shortly after. A little more time would pass and he toured Japan with Phife and Dj Rasta Root. In 2002 Vintage Imperial released their sophomore album independently, entitled "Synergy" which featured the single "Mic Club" with Jax and Flux of Binkis Recs. "Synergy" received press globally in Hip Hop based publications XXL, Complex Magazine, Warped, Import Tuner, and Southeast Performer Magazine. "Mic Club" received international radio airplay most notably from InterFM 76.1 FM in Tokyo, Japan... as well as WKCR 89.9 FM on the CM Famalam Radio Program hosted by Bobbito Garcia. A few more years would pass and Jax of Binkis Recs would suffer from a heart attack while onstage at Lenny's Bar and was pronounced dead after being rushed directly to the hospital.According to close friend and Binkis crew member Flux da Wondabat, Jax was performing the title track from his 2007 solo album, "Sharper Images"... when his heart stopped. Flux was quoted: "He was performing onstage and he just passed out in the middle of his verse"... "We went to the emergency room and then they came out and gave us the word." Since then, Hip Hop and Atlanta's scene really hasn't been the same! Jax was a true rarity and can never be replaced or duplicated! Jax, we miss & salute you!!! Rest in peace, brother!

JAX BUILDING ON LIFE & HAVING FUN CLIP

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My Brother's Keeper - Atlanta's Most Influential 2010 PT.2

Peace, "Party People"!!! Right back at you like we never left. Previously on part 1 to this entry, "Atlanta's Most Influential" we discussed our favorites for the following categories: Graffiti/Graphic Artist, B-Boy/B-Girl, Dj, Male Emcee,  & Hip-Hop promoter. In this second half, we'll cover our favorite's in these following categories : Female Emcee, Producer, Hip-Hop Group, Host, and "Gone but not Forgotten". In comparison, the people named in this article alongside part 1 are truly the next in line to be mentioned with the likes of moguls such as: Lauren Hill, Queen Latifah, Nas, Outkast, EPMD, Frosty Freeze, Crazy Legs, Grand Wizard Theodore, Dj Scratch, Rakim, Zephyr, Revolt, Lady Pink, DONDI, Fab Five Freddy, Arthur Armstrong, Ray Chandler, The Cassanova's , Marley Marl, Dj Premier and so on... Let's get into the winners! 6. ILLASTRATE - HIP-HOP PRODUCER [caption id="attachment_1839" align="aligncenter" width="398" caption="PHOTO BY: METHUZULAH FOR EAGLE EYE PHOTOGRAFFITI"][/caption]

Corey Presley a.k.a lllastrate Productions is a transplant from Fort Wayne, Indiana: a small town of about 250,000 people. Making beats & production wasn't always the focus or goal for this talented music maker, Illastrate started out as an emcee rapping, performing at High School talent shows with local crew "Outta Order". Later on they ended up forming a bigger crew called C.O.C. which gained much local attention in '97 when they dropped the album "The Nuthing". Sales from that project allowed him to purchase his first sampler and beat machine while he was attending college at Ball State University. He was kicked out of school due to his overwhelming love for beats and production. Shortly after, he ended up returning to Fort Wayne and dedicated most of his time to digging in crates and learning the true craft of hip hop production. Studying the likes of Ali Shaheed Muhammad, DJ Scratch, DJ Premier, The BeatMinaz, Dr. Dre, Pete Rock and any other high quality hip hop music he could get a hold of. He honed and sharpened his skills in the small city over the years, and finally decided to move to a bigger market (Atlanta) to his knowledge and understanding of music. After working with a few artist in Atlanta, his break came when Buddy Lee a member of the Hip-Hop group "Broady Champs", listened to a Illastrate beat tape, while both attending AIU college. The veteran Hip-Hop crew brought him in and he produced most of their official debut album "Breakfast of Champions" which was released on Day By Day Records in 2004. The album was well recieved by underground cultured listeners and was considered to be a true diamond in the rough or new found gem. Along his journey, Illastrate has been able to produce for artist such as  Akir, Tiye Phoenix, Dynas, Boog Brown, J-Live, Doitall, The Invizzibl Men and Methuzulah. Not to mention him co-executive producing the critically acclaimed Dynas LP, "The Apartment" (released on BBE) which boasted production by mogul producers like Jazzy Jeff, Illmind, 9th Wonder, J-Dilla and himself. In 2009 he released the first record off of his own imprint Working Class Music, The Black Noise LP, which featured Emcee Aarophat, formerly of Pockets Linted. The album was heralded and upheld in the underground circuit as a breakthrough classic, and was also named #1 album of 2009 by Bloggerhouse.net. He also produced heavily on one of the most groundbreaking artists of 2009: Boog Brown alongside lending production on Adrift De Belle's Garden State Parkway LP and "Lords of the Underground's", Doitall, on his solo effort "American Du". The song is entitled "Negrociations" and featured another Hip Hop legend Treach from "Naughty By Nature". 2010 is the year he decided to release his second project from Working Class Music "Eddie Coleman's: Friday Night Theme Music". Which is a Hip-Hop influenced instrumental album that features collaborations with musicians and vocalists such as Rock Most, DJ Amdex (Clan Destined), Richelle Scales, Grand Prize Winners From Last Year, Lyric Jones, Poodie The Byz, Jeffmatic and Fatima Washington. The album is his celebration of dealing with life's ills and coming through it all. The albums feels something like jazz mashed with the grit and rawness of 90's hip hop. 2011 is already looking bright as he has just placed production on the new album from J-Live, and has numerous projects in the works on his Working Class Music label such as Boston emcee Arablak, Jersey native Methuzulah (formerly Mojo Swagger). Illastrate is soon to drop his own compilation called "High Gravity" that features: Clan Destined (Domination Recordings), Kam Moye, J-Live, Boog Brown (Mellow Music Group), Methuzulah, Grind Time fame Ness-Lee and a host of others. Keeping his production, high quality and having a steady output is the main goal for this Midwest beatsmith as Working Class Music becomes a true force to be reckoned with. Illastrate, we salute you!!!

HIP HOP PRODUCER HONORABLE MENTION

D.R.U.G.S

SOL MESSIAH

FLOYD THA LOCSMIF

CLAN DESTINED

SMKA

ILLASTRATE INTERVIEW

7. BOOG BROWN - FEMALE EMCEE

[caption id="attachment_1845" align="aligncenter" width="398" caption="PHOTO BY: METHUZULAH FOR EAGLE EYE PHOTOGRAFFITI"][/caption]

Atlanta's based Boog Brown opens up her Pandora's Box of “Dope Girl Magic” like her life truly depended on it. Currently working in Atlanta, Detroit native Boog Brown is not only an emcee, but a poet and publisher. Even though she has been an emcee for only roughly 4 years, her writing goes back to the age of 14.  Some of her the work between then and now are included in these following projects: "My Life In Words", "Black Tie Fish Fry", and her debut 2007 mixtape release entitled "Extended Play".  Here's a shameless plug or disclaimer, people; Boog Brown is meant for this Hip-Hop and proves to you on each next edition. With tracks like "The Essence", "Dope Girl Magic" and "The Mirror", just to name a few of her most sought. Boog has collaborated with highly noted HipHop artists and more than talented producers such as Illastrate, Rita J, Aarophat, Apollo Brown, Invincible, Stahhr, Methuzulah, and 14KT, who has previously describes her voice as “the illest.” Boog has since been spotlighted in numerous print publications including Creative Loafing, The Industry Crusher Magazine and also on various blogosphere sites such as features on ATLHipHop.net and TheFembassy.com. Not to mention, Boog Brown's classic track "The Essence appeared" on BET's documentary "My Mic Sounds Nice". Boog recently released a mixtape, entitled "The Grind Season", in Early 2010... and in addition, she describes her debut album "Brown Study" released off of (Mello Music Group), which was a collaborative soulful project with Hip Hop producer Apollo Brown. The the all so infamous, Hiphop site BloggerHouse said this about Boog Brown and the Brown Study project: "Boog will undoubtedly draw comparison’s to Jean Grae" and "her flow is effortless, she laces her rhymes with clever wit and most importantly, her vulnerability and honesty shines through on each track". The first single off of Brown Study is the soulful and sensual “Just Be", a spiritually touched magical whisper that floats over Apollo Brown’s soulful and perfectly placed samples. Powerful and vibrant lyrics such as “Enraptured in the scent/ This is bliss at length/ From start to the finish/ Euphoric/ Absorbed in the ebullience/ Elegant every sense awakened” form a bond with Apollo Brown’s sampled softly laid horns, slow sweeping strings, and ambient chimes. "Just Be" is most definitely a song that exudes and encompasses real passion and deeply rooted feelings. Brown is working harder and harder by the day and will soon be considered and mentioned alongside names such as: Bahamadia, MC Lyte, Queen Latifah, not to mention the ever so notable Lauryn Hill, and Missy Elliott. Boog Brown has somehow taken the best qualities from some Hip-Hop's best talents and meshed that together with the realities of her everyday life and made classic music! Boog Brown, we salute you!!!

FEMALE EMCEE HONORABLE MENTION

STAHHR

ADRIFT DA BELLE

LYRIC JONES

SA-ROC

KHALILAH ALI

BOOG SPITS ACAPPELLA VERSE

8. BINKIS RECS - HIP HOP GROUP

Flux da Wundabat, Killa Kalm, Dj Mafioso and the shadowing spirit of the ever so lyrically inclined, Jax da Catalog forms Binkis Recs. BLAMMMM! "Binkis Recs was created due to the lack of creative and honest hip-hop music", is exactly what the Binkis Recs mission statement proclaims. In 1997 in the mist of over heated battles of “NBA LIVE 97″ Binkis was born. Jax and Flux decided they wanted to participate in the hip-hop game, and decided “Binkis” would be the name to use. The word "Binkis" is an acronym for "Before Ignorant N*ggas Killed Intelligent Songs". Based in Atlanta, Binkis has New York's wittiness, alongside Chicago's soul, blended with the South's energy and roots to form a powerful conglomerate. Similar to Jurassic 5, Prophetix, and The Roots: Binkis Recs has gained a strong following for rocking hard when performing at live shows. Binkis previously released a project on Day By Day Entertainment (home of MF Grimm, Prophetix, Rodan, etc), which was a debut LP entitled "The Reign Begins". While most of the production was handled by Binkis Recs, John Doe also contributed to their slightly vintaged album. Songs like "Bullitt", "Wundaluv", "Testimonial","Out The Box" are all first picks. The collective members of Binkis Recs also decided to release solo albums by themselves. Flux released "The Many Moods Of Mister Flux", Jax released "J.F.K. (Jax Forever King)", and a few others. Binkis Recs also has a couple compilation CDs, "How Many Lumps 1" and "How Many Lumps 2". Also Dj Mafioso (Atlanta's Latin Soul Brotha Number One) has projects to look out for like: Jungle 45 Mixtape “Keep Your Eye on the 45″, "Jax Tribute Mixtape"(in memory of Jax the Axe Handler) just to name a few. With out a doubt Binkis Records is an Atlanta Hip-Hop household name. Binkis Records, we salute you!!!

HIP HOP GROUP HONORABLE MENTION

CLAN DESTINED

STARCHILE

THE 5IVE

PASSPORT

THE WHEELER BOYS

BINKIS RECORDS SAMPLER

9. FORT KNOX - HIP HOP HOST

Fort Knox, also known as David Freeman is a breathe of fresh air directed in from New York City and bottled, pure, unadulterated positive energy and surprisingly enough manages to channel it correctly everywhere he goes. His customer service like, upbeat personality is a definite genuine character trait and is the main reason everybody can't get enough of him? Positivity has given him the power and aligned him with the likes of: B.O.B., Yelawolf, Raekwon and Bone Thugs-N-Harmony as well as organizations such as ASCAP and Nationwide Insurance. He also recently starred in the independent film "Pathways" and "Laying My Past to Rest”. A graduate of the Atlanta Broadcast Institute, Fort Knox also does voice over work. With a variety of projects on the way, he truly continues to somehow define: while defying the word "entertainer."Fort Knox is also one half of Strong Arm Management which is an conglomerate type artist management company. Which also specializes in branding, marketing and promotions. Strong Arm Management was formed as collective alongside by Big Tah in 2006. Both of them are more than familiar with managing, they collectively having been putting in work for 10+ years. Their experience and knowledge resulted in enabling them to work with both independent and major acts such as up and coming emcee Stanza and WMG artist Ms. Brown... from a marketing and promotions standpoint, Strong Arm Management not only markets and promotes their artists but also create events such as "Tru Skool ATL", "Producer's Swap Meet" and "Kulture Bizarre". Strong Arm Management has established itself as one of Atlanta's premier entertainment companies and will continue to maintain a substantially heavy presence in the game abroad. Fort Knox, we salute you!!!

HIP HOP HOST HONORABLE MENTION

MS. DIA

DRES THA BEATNIK

JAY FORCE

SENOR KAOS

RAS KOFI

FORT KNOX & BIG TAH INTERVIEW

10. JAX - GONE BUT NOT FORGOTTEN

Originally from Queens, Ny... Rochdale Village to be exact. Jax grew up around early traditional "Wildstyle" Hip Hop. As young boy born into the world named Christopher Thurston, he began listening to all the classic radio shows and watched some of television's most memorable Hip Hop shows such as Video Music Box, Yo! MTV Raps, Rap City, etc. Years would pass and he began Art and Design School. During that same time "Mobb Deep" was flourishing in Hip Hop and he met up with his soon to be longtime music and business partner, Flux. In '94 he came down to Atlanta and went to Clark Atlanta University. Then got with the N.E.B.L.O.S. Crew and formed Binkis Records in 97. In '99 he dropped his 1st album and then 4 more albums would follow shortly after. A little more time would pass and he toured Japan with Phife and Dj Rasta Root. In 2002 Vintage Imperial released their sophomore album independently, entitled "Synergy" which featured the single "Mic Club" with Jax and Flux of Binkis Recs. "Synergy" received press globally in Hip Hop based publications XXL, Complex Magazine, Warped, Import Tuner, and Southeast Performer Magazine. "Mic Club" received international radio airplay most notably from InterFM 76.1 FM in Tokyo, Japan... as well as WKCR 89.9 FM on the CM Famalam Radio Program hosted by Bobbito Garcia. A few more years would pass and Jax of Binkis Recs would suffer from a heart attack while onstage at Lenny's Bar and was pronounced dead after being rushed directly to the hospital. According to close friend and Binkis crew member Flux da Wondabat, Jax was performing the title track from his 2007 solo album, "Sharper Images"... when his heart stopped. Flux was quoted: "He was performing onstage and he just passed out in the middle of his verse"... "We went to the emergency room and then they came out and gave us the word." Since then, Hip Hop and Atlanta's scene really hasn't been the same! Jax was a true rarity and can never be replaced or duplicated! Jax, we miss & salute you!!! Rest in peace, brother!

JAX BUILDING ON LIFE & HAVING FUN CLIP

[uniquesquared]

My Brother's Keeper - Atlanta's Most Influential 2010 PT.1

Ok, Ok, Ok!!! Wildstyle, Breakin', Graffiti Rock, Beat Street... were just a few to capture the Hip-Hop culture on the "Big Screen" in it's early stages, but who are Atlanta's starring crew? I mean who are the people that keep Atlanta's Indie scene alive from day to day? You know the "go-getters" and "trendsetters" of the different tiers and facets of our beloved local Hip-Hop scene? I decided to put my money and time, where my heart was and honor these people by presenting them with award plaques and throwing a show called "My brother's Keeper" . Tag teaming w/ the "Temple of Hip-Hop's" own Minister Server and bringing the legendary "Cold Crush Brothers" for "MBK" show #2. Show #1 was thrown in 2008 at Atlanta's own Apache cafe. S/O to Unique Squared for sponsoring part of this historical 2010 event... "And the winners are"... Enjoy!!!

MY BROTHER'S KEEPER 2010 SHOW RECAP

1. GOLDI GOLD - GRAPHIC DESIGN (GRAFFITI ARTIST) Golden Aurelien loses sleep for the sake of his craft at least once a week , year round. Better known as "Goldi Gold", born in Newark and raised in East Orange, New Jersey. This extremely talented visual artist would later end up in Atlanta. Goldi's work first started receiving praise &  attention when he started using internet communities as virtual galleries for his artistic projects. His online gallery showing  grew larger after getting plenty of  encouragement from fellow artist, Miya Bailey. Bailey is  a world-class tattooist and  fine artist who also owns "City of Ink" , Atlanta's flyest Hip-hop driven tattoo shop and art gallery (located downtown Atlanta). Simply complex is just one way to describe Goldi Gold’s work. With crisp lines and bold colors, he created his own Hip-Hop influenced style... detailing features and making colors splash into one another in a way that is unique and exciting. Goldi learned basic computer graphics at Art institute of Atlanta before being kicked out. He managed using what he learned in class mixed series of trial and error attempts. As a youth, Goldi adopted a love for early Hip-Hop artists such as Rakim, Kool G Rap and PoSdonus. He also admires & adores the work of comic book artists Frank miller and Mike Zeck. Goldi’s work is closely related to the work of Emory Douglas, the Black Panther Party’s Minister of Culture from 1967 to the 80s.   Golden's work has been featured in various magazines... including Urban Ink, Ozone, Brother’s Perspective and Crunk. Not to mention the numerous amount of notable art shows, Goldi is staying well grounded in his craft... as a visual soothsayer. Goldi Gold is currently in the creative process of piecing together a book titled "Complex Simplicity", a collection of work that will drop sometime 2011. "The Man with the Golden Hands" is also founder & head fashion designer for his urban hip-hop fused clothing line: Jungle45 , featuring the latest urban wear  & a tag-a-long cultural blog (junglejem45.blogspt.com). If, Golden Aurelien is not traveling in a "Art, Beats + Lyrics" art show or designing images for a Hope for Haiti Benefit, FTP (feed the people) event , he's probably just  getting ready to save the world. Goldi , we admire & salute you! Congratulations!!!

GRAPHIC ARTIST HONORABLE MENTION 2010

Dubelyoo

Miya Bailey

Mr. Soul

Flux

DTM(Dan the Man)

I WORK , BEFORE I GO TO WORK !

2. ZULU QUIC- B-BOY/B-GIRL (ZULU NATION)

Miguel "Quic" Rojas infamously known as B-boy Quic, was born and raised in the ever so colorful borough of the Bronx in New York City. Being Puerto Rican during the 80’s and 90’s in the birth place of Hip Hop, Quic found himself always exposed to different music, culture and dance. His family love to dance salsa and his sister got him involved with hip hop at a very young age. By the time Quic turned 18 he started his first B-boy crew in Atlanta, Ga... which is now known as the "Funk Lordz". Eight years later he has traveled, performed, battled and taught across the country. Planting seeds allowed the "Funk Lordz" to spread & represent Quic’s vision now in seven cities across the globe. In 2006 he became a member of the Universal Zulu Nation by joining the MZK chapter (Mighty Zulu Kingz) who are the originators of B-boying (break dancing) dating back to the 70’s and are now the most influential dancers on the planet. At that point, Zulu Quic became the highest ranked B-boy in Georgia... but Quic was not satisfied and decided to move back to NYC for a spell to find the true roots and his reason for dancing. Building with legends & originators helped him progress in his unmatchable routines & swift movements. Quic is currently back in Atlanta  and runs his own "Atlantis Zulu Chapter", as well as the "Funk Lordz". He continues to teach, battle & perform with grass root organizations to high-end corporations and legendary artists such KRS One, Talib Kweli, Methuzulah, Atlanta Hawks, National Black Arts Festival, Kenneth Cole, Macy’s, Kulturez, Y3, Scion, Adidas to to name a few. It's not a hobby for Zulu Quic... it's a lifestyle. He also is CEO of a Clothing company named "Kulturez" alongside his brother Mayan Tamang. Plus, he is the very future for the Atlanta LowLow scene. Quic means to Hip-Hop, what the cardboard box did to Crazy Legs in 1984! Zulu Quic, we admire & salute you! Congratulations!!!

B-BOY/B-GIRL HONORABLE MENTION 2010

MENDEZ

MR. COOL

ZAPPER

B-GIRL SEVERE

AFRICANO

FUNK LORDZ VS. BURN UNIT

3. DJ RASTA ROOT- DJ (PRODUCER/MANAGER)

Born with the name Dion Liverpool and originally from Canada, Dj Rasta Root relocated to Atlanta where he happened to find success and solace on the radio, in the club, and the corporate event scene. Rasta Root has been rocking the decks for over 15 years. Roots has an extensive music library archived with countless genres and a magician-like knack to play the right music at the right time for any crowd.  His worldwide eclectic style and virtual ability to read his audience comes mainly from a three year DJ tour of Japan. While performing night after night in venues and concerts he learned the importance of  appealing to both his Japanese fans and American audiences. Still to this day he takes the same approach with every performance by analyzing each audience and playing the exact tunes that crowd wanted to hear. Also an accomplished and decorated producer, he owns a production label: Smokin’ Needles Records and has composed tracks for the Dallas Mavericks’ and was hand selected to attend and work at the Red Bull Music Academy in Rome, Italy. Not to mention Roots has also spun in Europe, Phillipines, Canada, US, and most of the Caribbean. He currently controls the turntables and produces for the likes of A Tribe Called Quest's Phife Dawg. Together with Phife, they run Smokin' Needles Records. Rasta Root produced the first single from Smokin' Needles in 2003 called 'U Know U Want It', which also features label affiliates Jax, Hawkeye, and Slick & Rose. Roots also plans to be 1st in the beat placement line for the highly anticipated reunion album by A Tribe Called Quest. Rasta Root, Phife, and Jax previously departed to Japan for the "Smokin' Needles 2003 Winter Tour", which was a success. They entertained US military bases and local Japanese hip hop fans. You can catch Roots on stage with Phife, in the Dj booth or at a packed club anywhere around the world. He has also opened shows in Japan for the likes of Redman, Nas, Busta Rhymez, and the Wu-tang Clan. In Atlanta, he quickly made his name through the local club circuit, opening for artists such as KRS-One, Noriega, A Tribe Called Quest and Rakim. Roots found an early home for himself on 88.5FM WRAS on "The Bomb", at Georgia State University. which was 100,000 watts and at the time... the biggest college signal in the US. Finally, Rasta Root had got his chance for the city of Atlanta and the surrounding areas to hear his ill mixes and dope blends. Under Smokin' Needles, Phife and Roots would form a unique dj/mc team, with Phife handling mic duties and Roots holding down the sounds. They rock parties from NY to Tokyo utilizing their Caribbean roots to spice up any hip hop or dancehall event. Roots is the resident dj at Atlanta's MJQ and has rocked there with the likes of Quest Love, Bobbito, Rich Medina, and many other legendary hip-hop notables. In 2004, Rasta Root took over the management of Phife. Together they appeared on Midway Games "NBA Ballers" on a track called "NBA Ballout". In 2006, Roots started his monthly residency at MJQ with his own night called "Face-Off Fridays". This event teams him up with some of Atlanta’s greatest djs to provide the scene with many memorable fun-filled Friday nights. Rasta Roots management roster has included Phife, A Tribe Called Quest, Cheryl Boyce-Taylor, Chip, and Slick & Rose.Sooner or later Roots' this roster will aid him in launching Riddim Kidz Management company. Rasta Root is a true musical genius and a ninja-like multi-tasker. Dj Rasta Root, we admire & salute you! Congratulations!!!

HIP-HOP DJ HONORABLE MENTION 2010

DJ DUG BOOGIE

DJ KEMIT

DJ FUDGE

DJ SOL MESSIAH

DJ GHOST

DJ RASTA ROOT IN THE PHILIPINES

4. 4-IZE - EMCEE (RECORDING ARTIST)

Born Tony Hayes III this lyrical sorcerer hails originally from the West Suburbs of Chicago (Oak Park), Illinois. 4-IZE focuses on using every letter and every word as a verbal weapon in his uphill battle to reach success in the music industry. Wearing glasses used as his third eye to see his way through the deepest depths of the world. 4-IZE , ironically took what was once an unfortunate insult as a child, and uses it as his "moniker". It serves as a ongoing constant reminder of how he learned self-confidence in his struggle to be a genuine individual. 4-IZE began rapping in 1991 and was in a group known as the "Loudmouth Hooligans", a group that included "Ludacris". Together they began performing at local hometown events, talent show competitions and record company sponsored showcases. In 1999, 4-IZE relocated to Atlanta, GA in order to further his musical career. Hip-Hop fans have already experienced a taste of 4-IZE’s lyrical abilities and onslaught on both 3X Platinum albums by Def Jam South recording artist, Ludacris. 4-IZE was a major contributor to the phenomenal album sales of "Back for the First Time", in 2000 and "Word of Mouf", in 2001. 4-IZE released his debut album "Fantastik 4-IZE" as a heavily online based project in 2007 on iTunes. 4-IZE is currently an unsigned indie  artist with major industry affiliation, and an extremely strong underground following, worldwide. If 4-ize isn't writing , recording or performing... he's silently planning his attack! 4-IZE, we admire & salute you! Congratulations!!!

EMCEE HONORABLE MENTION 2010

STANZA

ARABLAK

DILLON

EKUNDAYO

G.R.E.A.T SCOTT

4-IZE IN THE LAB W/ 9TH WONDER

5. SPEAKEASY-PROMOTIONS (BOOKING AGENT)

Born into the world Brannon Boyle and representing as a "Atlanta Baby", Speakeasy runs the one of city's dopest underground promotions and booking companies. He manages to book & promote shows, design flyers, and direct videos.  B.Easy seems to always have a lot going on. So, instead of writing a lengthy paragraph I decided to list some of his past business endeavors and dopest shows to date... the list is rather long! Word!

Here's the list of some of the venues, parties, and artists he's worked with: Apache Cafe Cenci 529 The Loft 5 Spot Masquerade a3c Hip Hop Festival Eastside Lounge Drunken Unicorn Center Stage Goodie Mob Snoop Dogg / Slightly Stoopid Bone Thugs Devin the Dude Raekwon GZA Method Man and Redman Camp Lo People Under the Stairs Edan C Rayz Walz Tanya Morgan Jeru the Damaja John Robinson Count Bass D J-Live Mayer Hawthorne Jedi Mind Tricks Qwel Bilal The Foriegn Exchange Art, Beats, and Lyrics Diamond D Opio Themselves Eyedea and Abilities Health Indian Jewelry George Clinton and Parliament Funkadelic Little Brother RJD2 Lightning Bolt Ariel Pink Mimosa Free Moral Agents 2mex Joell Ortiz Black Sheep Rah Digga Nottz Methuzulah Some reoccurring shows: Hip Hop Jam Session at Apache Cafe every Tuesday Atlanta Funk Society every Monday at the 5 Spot The Speakeasy event series. (#10 tba) Free Acid at the 529 (#2 tba) Stay Productive (#3 tba)

Speakeasy, we admire & salute you! Congratulations!!!

PROMOTER HONORABLE MENTION 2010

STRONGARM MANAGEMENT

FADIA KADER

TAJ ANWAR

RAS KOFI

RASHEEDA ALI

RAEKWON LIVE IN ATLANTA (PERFORMING "HOUSE OF FLYING DAGGERS")

[heaveeweight]

It's not that I've been sleeping on @Arablak I just haven't taken the time to focus on his music. Funny thing it took me building with him in a non music situation and just phuking with him as a human being to then turn my head and digest the dopeness of his Art. Late Pass For Me. The pairing of Pittsburgh producer Shade Cobain with Massachusetts native and ATL resident MC Arablak was one of the first recordings of the weekend at Salem Psalms Studio during A3C weekend and turned out to be one of the illest collabs of the project! The Beatz & Lyrics Show w/ Jayforce & Salem Psalms present Beatz & Lyrics 2 Go Vol. 2, the project recorded completely during the A3C festival, one of the largest hip hop festivals in the southeast on the festival grounds in the Unique Squared Mobile Studio & Salem Psalms Library an earshot away from the festival. CREDITS: Executive Producers: Amond Jackson & J Haze (Dynamite Bruhz/Salem Psalms) Chief Engineer: Yamin Semali Recording Engineer: Amond Jackson Turntablist(cutz): DJ Deliver Art Directors: Craig "Flux" Singleton, Goldi Gold, Mister Soul Visual Artist: Brandon Sadler www.Risingredlotus.com

[ohsowrite-blog]

Review: Divided Time: The Documentary (directed, written and produced x w. feagins, jr.)

  Images of Black single mothers and daddyless Black children are constantly saturating our media outlets.  We’ve heard the narrative for so long that we begin to perpetuate this thought and go along with the misrepresentation.  Hip hop is very much a deep thread in the Black community, woven in many facets of our daily lives.  As a male-dominated industry, we rarely hear the stories of these…

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[ivorynotes-blog]

Another breakfast session...

Yo!

Just finished a new beat - this one is extremely simple with regards to structure, however the chords aren't.  I made this one in Cubase 5 - I basically made a track first and then sliced it up and rearranged it...

I hope you like it - I'm gonna call this one "Trailing Behind"

This is a simple beat for complex lyrics...

If you likey - reblogg!

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