With a vixen look, star attitude and quality voice, Sye Spence's progress in the music industry is beyond the expected genre. The recent release of her EP Mad Mad World is a surprise look into her growth as an artist and talent as a singer. Her vocals provide an entrance into a world of rock, alternative, pop, and the hardest rhythm and blues you'll ever experience.
Miss Solow Dolow: Is Sye Spence your real name?
Sye Spence: Yes. My mom pretty much put letters together after I was born, which I think was pretty creative on her part.
MSD: What kind of performers do you look to inspire your performance?
SS: There are so many that I admire from many styles of music. My personal inspirations are a lot of the more dramatic, emotionally driven musicians from the 70s. Particularly Kate Bush, I learned so much about mixing eccentricity with grace from her.
MSD: What kind of emotion and feeling did you have while completing Mad Mad World?
SS: While writing these songs, it was so intense. I was filled with so many thoughts about past, present, and future. Every detail of my memory, mixed and all my hopes and dreams, were what I drew from as a muse. So it evoked a variety of emotions: passion, anger, strength being the most prominent of them all.
MSD: What does "Mad Mad World" mean to you and what should it mean to people who listen to the EP?
SS: Mad Mad World has a large powerful meaning. I started out very timid and shy with my gift, afraid of what I knew was inside of me to share. When I started recording this project, I realized that my gift was very powerful and I literally believed that I could take over the world. For anyone that listens to the record, I want them to feel the same way. That they can conquer anything, they can be bold, powerful, dream big, extrodinary dreams, be different, or just be.
MSD: What can people expect August 28th?
SS: August 28th will be centered around showcasing the great potential of creativity, my goal is for people to leave the show feeling like, "Man, I can do that!" or "Man, I can go ahead and go for my dream of being a doctor or a freaking astronaut, or whatever!" Really pumped and amped for life. The goal is to entertain and inspire. I am pretty confident the spirit and energy put into the show and the EP will do just that.
MSD: What are your upcoming projects?
SS: Right now, I am actually writing for my second EP. It is not yet titled and it will stay that way until I feel it. I wrote Mad Mad World in a matter of 6 months. I want to take even more time with this second project to nurture the sound and experiment with creativity. Also, I have been fortunate enough to be featured on a few compilation records, one being Noise Porn released by Nouveau Music and Ethereal's No Saliva Vol. 1 released by Greedmont Park.
The British truth when it comes to new emotional electronic r&b sounds, V.V. Brown is an entrepreneur in songwriting, fashion, music, storytelling and more.
Her inspirations are reflected in her art and her ambition reflects her many successful business ventures at age 26.
On tour with Grammy winners Maroon 5 and American Idol winner Kris Allen, she's taken her live show a step further to show America what they've been missing.
Check out the audio clips of the interview to hear an addition in the answer. (I felt it sounded better straight from her British accent)
Miss Solow Dolow: Describe geeki? VV Brown: Geeki is a name I created for when I write other people's song.
MSD: What is the difference between Geeki the writer and VV the artist musically? VV: It’s different when I write for the artist because it’s a different style of music and you have to get in a physiological place in order to write for them but as VV I’m pulling from my own experiences rather than writing for those people and making up experiences.
MSD: You did a tribute to ABBA, what does that group and their music mean to you from your childhood and as an inspiration? VV: I admire them because I think their very good songwriters. Their music is timeless and I hope my music can be like that.
MSD: What are you doing to make your music timeless? VV: I think timelessness is in the consumer’s hands. I really just started in this music game so only time will tell.
MSD: What other artists do you think are timeless and you are personally inspired by their music? VV: Frank Sinatra, timeless. Erykah Badu quite frankly is timeless. Ella Fitzgerald is quite timeless. Nirvana has a timelessness about it. It’s music that whenever it’s played it is relevant.
MSD: You've stated in the past that artists like Lady Gaga, who insert fashion into their music are following the trend of Europe from years ago. How far behind do you think the music industry of the U.S. is behind Europe? VV: I don’t know how far behind they are but I know that Europe is much more forward when it comes to fashion. I can’t say that U.S. is behind two, three, four or five years but Europe has this trendsetting nature about it. All the music on the radio and in fashion at the moment, Europe was doing that two
years ago. I do think Europe is the trendsetter of the world when it comes to art.
MSD: Should inserting fashion into your music be a part of artist's career? VV: It’s a part of your identity. It’s just another form of expression.
MSD: What present female artists are doing well in the industry? VV: Janelle Monae is really talented. Amel Larrieux is doing really well. There’s not a lot of artists when you actually analyze it. I’m a huge fan of Vampire Weekend. Jay Electronica is the truth. I’d love to work with him. VV Brown Talks Artists by MISSSD
MSD: Who are some of your favorite hip hop artists right now? VV: I’m really lovin’ Jay Electronica right now. I’m a huge fan of Mos Def and Talib Kweli. I’m more into conscious hip hop than dance hip hop. I kinda feel like hip hop is losing a lot of its soul and we really need to go back to what it was like in the 90’s, when they had something to say about something. That’s why I really like Jay Electronica. I think he’s an absolute genius and he’s the best rapper to come out in the last 10 years.
MSD: As a fan, what do you think hip hop artists can do to put the soul and content back into it? VV: I think they shouldn’t be afraid to get political again and talk about what’s going on in society. They need to be less consumed by a lifestyle that doesn’t relate to the struggle. I’m tired of hearing about money, hoes, and medallions and how much their worth, how hot they are. People don’t want to hear that stuff, that’s boasting. People want to hear about their struggle and what’s going on in the world. Hip hop used to be about poetry and it’s not about that anymore. It’s one big boasting charade. It’s pushing the stereotype of what people perceive black man to be. We need to have much more consciousness that will bring back the ideal of the intellectual black man rather than the black man talking about issues that are not relevant to society.
MSD: Talk more about the City of Abacus project. VV: It’s really great. It’s a graphic novel and a project of love. The second edition is available to buy now. We’re fully on our way. You can find out more at www.Cityofabacus.com.
MSD: As far as fashion, what culture do you represent and where do you think you fit in? VV: I think I represent European culture and fashion. I fit into my own mold and I think that’s what fashion is about, individuality. You’re supposed to be yourself and because I’m myself and European I represent myself being a European.
MSD: Did runway walking come natural? VV: I think it came quite natural. As a kid I was always strutting around the house, being silly and prancing. I was always attracted to creativity in performance. I was always interested in my mom’s fashion magazines and her wardrobe.
MSD: Can you talk more about you were feeling through a lot of the songs like “Leave” and “Crying Blood”? VV: I was heart broken and I wanted to express my feelings of pain. At the same time I wanted to make people feel liberated that they could get out of the situation like I was. This is why the lyrics are like ‘crying blood’ and ‘shark in the water’ but the melodies are very happy and quite fun, up-tempo. It’s that contradiction in the place of me being very sad but showing women and anyone who’s had a broken heart that they even though you’re upset you can get out of the situation and everything’s fine. It’s kind of the liberation of a broken heart in those songs.
MSD: While on tour, what have you learned from the headliners Maroon 5?
VV: One thing I’ve learned from Maroon 5 is that every night they give it a 125%. It doesn’t matter how hot it is and even though they are very, very successful and sold millions of records, every night they play their show like it’s their last. Every show you do you are grateful that you are there and you have to play it like that because you don’t know if it’s your last.
MSD: What have you discovered about yourself? VV: I’m a control freak. I’m obsessed with music. I’ve also discovered not to validate myself by success and the only success is what you define it to be. I’ve realized that success equals happiness and being comfortable and fulfilled in your own heart. Before I was younger I would validate myself by how many records I’ve sold and how many awards I was going to get but now I’ve changed and have a much more mature outlook.
British beauty VV Brown will be opening for Maroon 5 tonight.
The r&b, pop, experimental soul singer is becoming a fashion icon and business mogul while gaining exposure through everything from TV commercials and hit television shows (The Hills, Desperate Housewives).
Here's what she said to expect tonight:
"It's going to be very energetic. Because we are supporting, we are concentrating on the music. People should just expect fun, good, live music and lots of energy. Lots of energy!"
Maroon 5, Kris Allen, VV Brown
Verizon Wireless Amphitheatre
8pm
$38.90 - $65.60 at Ticketmaster
If you’re trying to break into the entertainment industry right now, your best bet is to have all talents on decks. If you can juggle, you may want to toss that into your resume. Naira is an original quadruple threat that labels and executives have long looked into and are still not ready for the phenomenon. Her ability to record good music, produce an awesome track, pretend to be someone unlike herself, and work a camera puts her in good standing with Hollywood.
Does Naira sound familiar? It’s the currency for Nigeria. As corrupt as the country is she’s made a greater, more positive meaning to the word. “It took me awhile to find a name. I wanted something that had a ring to it and was some way, shape, or form connected to my heritage. I took it a step further so it can truly represent who I am and what I’m trying to do with my music. It means Nigerian American I Represent Africa.”
With no comparisons just yet, her inspirations are reminiscent of legendary African greats and their rich musical sound. “Fela Kuti is a voice that extended to all of Nigeria, to the human struggle. Angelique Kidjo is so prolific to me. Huge Sade fan as many will find out!”
The first of three preludes to her new album Fearless: The Art of Letting Go is The Colour of Love. In this collaborative project, production from herself and Atlanta’s soul minded J. Haze helped Naira express what many can not over a fused Sade instrumental and original composition. Not just anyone can do Sade. “I have so much respect for her and I had to tap into the depth that Sade represents. I made a point to be in sync with how classic and classy Sade is. With everything I did, I made sure it touched me and touched someone else.” Motivating cuts like “Pathway” and “Ode to Isabelle” reach out to those in different struggles, vocally encouraging listeners to keep pushing.
Her sound unifies afropop, blues, hip hop, and soul. Her upbringing is the base for her musical creations but she’s found muse in artists like Boog Brown, Jean Gray, and J Davey that are doing what she does just as well. “I was raised traditionally like a Yoruba girl. All the cultural upbringing I exude. It’s not how I sound, it’s who I am. Mash them up.”
In the past, Naira’s performed onstage. Quite the thespian, she’s done a couple scripts here and there since her high school years. In “Pathways,” an upcoming indie film with guest appearances from the entire Atlanta music scene, Naira plays the disliked other half of the main character. “In the movie I play his girlfriend, she’s a troublemaker and no one likes her. They said they knew I was perfect for the part even though I’m the complete opposite.”
Getting the buzz up is the most important thing for Naira right now. She’s into videography, doing visuals for her fan base and tacking on some new tasks that will get her music out to the people. “Under Vantage Point Pictures I’m really getting into videography. I’ve directed a couple videos and I look to do some short films before the end of the year. Visuals are 100% of a marketing tool right now. People don’t watch TV anymore, they are watching their computer screens and the streets I’m hitting the streets and giving people something they can hold.”
Something like a differenter, staying relevant is all about recreating yourself as an artist consistently while being spunky and silly of course. The remaining preludes to the album are two concept based collections and through the numerous projects she’s been cramming for the last year and a half, she’s still thrusts her elbows on the table with fists in her cheeks and a big smile. “Following TCOL is my freestyle CD, See Me See Trouble. The Force of Gravity mixtape deals with that same storyline. We all are fighting against it so we can spread our wings and fly.”
It’s not easy being a pop wonder because at the end of the day everyone wants to know your story. What makes you different in 2010. A 29-year-old Italian-American from Miami, Fl tells his triumphs and trials over experimental rock cuts and hoppy pop tracks. “People are always interested in my health issues so as I try to keep my music and that part of my life separate they always seem to blend.”
Barry Brandon Squillace started writing music with his best friend, Jose Luis Rodriguez, ten years ago and it was in spring of 2008 that he received doctoral confirmation to continue his singing career.
The release of his first EP Scar to Star takes a listener through love, dance, his fight with his heart melodically. It also prepared him for what's to come musically. "Although it wasn't perfect, it sparked interest from people. It’s definitely allowed me to do what I'm doing now."
“I'm an 80’s baby born and raised,” Brandon starts, “It’s something about that time that it was happy and lyrically driven. Songs had meaning and were still pop music, light and fun, which is important.” His belief that the present pop scene is reinvented 80’s music, gives him the creative spin that he wants in his sound. Electroglampop is Brandon's mix of a classical pop genre with an insert of rock and a twist of electro.
Brandon’s inspiration to pursue music lies solely with a Swedish pop star from the 90’s. Her transformation throughout the pop scene have really made a difference to his take on how to present music to the public and set himself apart, which he’s been able to without any comparisons.
“My main inspiration is Robyn. Her music is perfect to me. I listen to her records and it’s all inclusive of a couple of different genres. She’ll do ballads with a piano or just an element of violin and then she has mixes and produced pop tracks. I haven’t been compared to anyone, is that weird?!” he exclaims. Not being compared to another artist isn’t necessarily a bad thing but Brandon gives the fans what they want in so many ways.
His one man show “In My Own Words” musically tells his life story stripped down and acoustically performed. “The cabaret talks about my life growing up, a comedy and drama. It’s the musical outlet for the Heart Foundation and “The Tin Man Project”." The Heart Foundation is an charity organization started by Brandon that benefits the families of children with failing hearts. The foundation does what it can to handle all expenses involved in bettering the child's health. "The Tin Man Project" is a documentary filming Brandon in the times of his final open heart surgery.
Coming soon, Brandon will be performing live on Monday night with a live band for the first time. Following that, he will be overseas with firepower women, Fuel Girls and recording his full-length album. His goal to be everywhere no matter who makes it happen. "Making sure the music is right and hopefully I get picked up cause in a perfect world I would be signed. But we’ve come this far doing stuff on our own so we’ll just keep doing things that way until otherwise," he says.
Don't let his heart get you down, Brandon is quite the party starter! Many say the nightlife in Miami's South Beach is something everyone should experience so the 80’s miracle brings that same lively, dynamic style to Atlanta. When he’s not singing away, he's throwing or hosting a party somewhere in the city. “I’m focused on the music but we’ll continue to do parties in Atlanta every week.” You can catch him shaking ass and charming crowds at Midtown's Aurum Lounge or East Atlanta Village's My Sister’s Room and I-Lounge.
Inspired by the likes of Jay-Z and Kanye West, his stage name is anything but that. “My name is Justin and I’m from Cali. My name has been Jay West for awhile. I’m from the west coast and my name is Justin, that’s not gonna change.”
For the west coast affiliate, being a momma’s boy got him to Atlanta, Ga. but being immersed in the city and seeing the opportunities kept him here. “I’m from San Bernadino and things are a lot slower out there. The opportunities I have out here I didn’t have out there. Now I’m here dropping the mixtape. I don’t know if I’d be in that same position if I was still in southern Cali.”
Describing his sound as progressive and emotional rap, the other Mr. West released Drugs and Candy, a mixtape that discusses the combination of good and bad while living the fast life. “There’s a marriage between the title, the concept, and the artwork. Drugs and Candy are the things that are characteristically in this world deemed to be good for you but can be used to hurt you and when abused are bad for you.”
Crowd pleaser cut “Plus Minus” starts the mixtape off with the overarching theme: Vices and what we as people decide to indulge in. Other tracks like “Summer Nights”, “White Lies, Black Dress”, and Hold Me Down present a softer tone lyrically and a beat selection with heavy percussion, guitar riffs, and live instruments.
As West looks to work with Savannah, Ga.’s Jake Troth and Iceland’s Patty Crash, he knows his responsibilities to the west coast. “I have no qualms saying I represent the A and I know I got dues to pay on the West Coast but I feel very responsible to put a good face on no matter what I do. Everyone has an expectation for the west coast to be gangster rap and those aren’t the ideals I represent. I want to be able to show more diversity and growth for Cali.”
Food, alcohol, drama, drugs or candy, whatever your vice you can OD on it all Friday night.
Hey guys, I'm back and ready to roll right into August. Lots of shows, lots of traveling, and damnit lots of good music. Stay tuned. Check the new video releases dolow.
Arjan Writes is an Atlanta-based pop blogger that keeps ME up to date with all the good European and American music that doesn't involve "the hook"(if you know what I mean).
In ten days Canadian pop group (with a sexy female insert might I add) Dragonette will be stopping in Atlanta for Arjan's inaugural Atlanta Superfraiche pop concert series, which has been held in NY and LA. Lucky ATL to be the next stop and really take advantage of good music.
Dragonette is straight funky with a fun-loving sound and heart-breaking rhythms. Marina and crew talently add smooth lyrics and attractive vocals.
"Mr. ElectroGlampop" Barry Brandon will be opening for the trio and if you're lucky, ONLY IF YOU'RE LUCKY, he'll invite you to one of his sexy parties.
Unfortunately Shy Child can't make it, but Arjan has great ears. I'm sure he'll find another fabolous to make the crowd go wild.
Get you tickets now! Keep your eyes stressed for some ticket giveaways next week!
89.3 that plays some damn good music from all ethnicities and cultures: jazz, hip hop, latin, indian. This weekend they are celebrating every one's subconscious love for rap.
Yeah you know you love rap, even if all you listen to is holy hip hop.
The Show's Ms. Dia and ChicagoTrilla will be hosting. Ms. Dia is quite the fool might I add. I was first introduced to her at Hip Hop Appreciation Week's Women in Rap event. Cool people.
NAIRA, dat boi Grip, Ness Lee, and more are performing. Tickets are $10 at the door. Check for me to post interviews later this week.
And you know it all goes down at Apache Cafe at 9pm. Hit me if you need more info.
"I wish.” That is what the ‘king remembered in time’ says when asked would he have signed to Def Jam Records 3 years ago. “Signing with Def Jam now is like a dream come true. Growing up, seeing Russell Simmons and Rick Rubin give the thumbs up was everything. Being a Mississippi artist on Def Jam label means a lot to me and people in my circle.”
The music industry continues to 360 with major labels signing artists that are more established and have a base. These artists have a following, a brand, and do everything themselves. That's exactly what Mississippian Big K.R.I.T. is all about. He's created everything for himself. “They let me do me. I’m country and I’m always gonna be country. They [Def Jam] is behind what we’ve already branded and they believe in the movement. They are providing a platform for people to hear it.”
He’s taken advantage of that platform fusing 19th century soul and ghetto lyricism on his critically acclaimed compilation of true southern hip hop K.R.I.T. Wuz Here. The mixtape and his NY performance was praised by a publication that tends to shy away from anything below D.C. “Being from where I’m from and to be recognized for music in New York is a blessing. For people to write about my music, whether it’s negative or positive, it’s still a blessing,” K.R.I.T. exclaims.
His comparisons lead many to believe he will be the next to takeover the southern hip hop-sphere, putting intellectual back into what the south started more than a decade ago. Since he considers himself a student of hip hop, there may be some truth to that. “I listen to the dynamics, storytelling, hook patterning. Really being a student has to do with the type of artist I am now. From UGK and Outkast to Tupac and Biggie, all of these artists influence me. They molded who I am as an emcee.”
The producer and emcee expressed being a southern artist is not everything society thinks it is. There is a lot more to country folk than non existent dirt roads and an accent. “We’re educated, down to earth, soulful people. I wanna break down the stereotypes. It ain’t no dirt roads and we ain’t on horseback. We go through the same thing the rest of the country goes through. We’re more open-minded musically and academically. I really want to express that in my music.” His country cousins do the same. “Wiz Khalifa, J Cole, Freddie Gibbs, Yelawolf. All these artists put out music that reflects them as an individual and where their from. Be yourself and rap about what you know about and people will respect it.”
Interestingly enough, early in the game K.R.I.T. is already familiar with the hustle that goes on with making music that does not reflect that individual. He hopes that artists remain true to themselves but to those that are on hard times he's been there and done that. “Artists that compromise their creative mind frame, I can understand when you’re trying to get the label’s attention and you sacrifice, but it’s a new day and age. Def Jam invested in who I am as a human being. A major label will still invest in you being yourself. Make sure it’s quality and go all out when investing in yourself so when the labels do call you can call the shots.”
This is good advice coming from a major label rookie and as things become overwhelming for new artists he stays focus by remembering his ultimate goals. When newly signed artists are thinking about their first car or piece of flashy jewelry, K.R.I.T. has more important things to care for. Making music is not just for him. “My ultimate goal is to make quality music and become financially free. I want to be able to help my loved ones, give inspiration and hope to those who listen to my music.”
Motivated by his colleagues and his competition, he moved to Georgia for a better sense of the industry. “I moved from Mississippi in 2006 to come to Atlanta because it is the southern hip hop Mecca. My main goals are branding now. Also working with other artists and going platinum. Producing the best music I can. I like all genres and I’m indulging myself in all of it.” He made it out here like many do and now he’s ready to celebrate with us. We should expect similar hospitality because it goes across the board. “It’s going down on the 10th of July. It’s a celebration of everything!
He signed the dotted line but things don’t change for the worse, they only get better. K.R.I.T. favorites majority of the current release and keeping around those who have been with him since the beginning. “Hometown Hero” is one of my favorites. “Return of Foreva” and “Country Shit” I really like. “I Gotta Stay” which is dedicated to my grandmother is on there because I wanted it on there. It’s just one of those things. Everything isn’t so much about shock value.” Make her proud.
(L to R: Stago Lee, Dreamer, Tuki Carter, the LoveCrusader)
This is Atlanta, Ga. and there are not too many men you can find that are fly at all times, educated in many fields, versatile from every aspect, and driven to get what’s theirs. It’s hard to believe that the crazy and imaginative foursome has all these traits covered but lost love on a two way street, according to their recent release Edible Phat 2.0. It may be the grocery cart....
Stago Lee, Tuki Carter, Dreamer, and the LoveCrusader form Hollyweerd. As they are transitioning out of a progression period that has changed their sound and management, fortunately their music and other talents in arts have continued to keep them standing out all over.
Tuki is part owner in a nationally known tattoo shop, City of Ink. “Tuki tattoos and makes music all day,” the LoveCrusader says of him. “We both design and stuff. That’s the artist lifestyle,” his continued. Stago Lee helps keep music in the schools by teaching at a local charter school while Dreamer is in partnership with Brian Stone as apart of Operation ADD. Separately they get it in throughout the state but together they take over the country.
Since the past three releases, including last year’s Edible Phat, they have matured continuing to learn more about each other and grow in their sound. It's been positive reception their newest mixtape and its' proved to increase their set of supporters. “The first three projects were concept driven. Edible Phat 2.0 was mixed and more in tune with our music,” Dreamer starts. “Our sound is more mature. We’re still in the progression stages of our career. The sound pinpoints where we are now in our career.”
The change in management contributed to Hollyweerd’s growth. They acknowledge it’s time to get down to business, do what’s good for everyone involved, and get focused. “Everything happens for a reason. We made a business decision for the greater good of the group. It’s all about progression and we felt like the move we was for that and better opportunities. Right now ya’ll need to be focused on Edible Phat 2.0.,” the LoveCrusader explains.
At this time in the music industry, going independent is the move for anyone trying to get on. These cats love the idea and it sounds good but they are just trying to give everyone an experience when it comes to their music, hence the repetitive “pumping this music to get you into it” of “SupaEazy”.
“There’s gonna be jaws droppin’! It’s a lot of fun and we try to bring something new and different,” The Love Crusader describes. In these upcoming shows with new Def jam signee Big K.R.I.T. and the 2010 Atlanta Indie Fest, Hollyweerd will continue to bring newness to the stage. They’ve learned from the best. “We’ve done shows with entertainers that have really put on a show. We’ve learned from the Constellations to Falcon Lords. We take what we’ve been around and apply it,” Dreamer says.
“Shows. Shows. Shows. All I wanna do is shows,” Dreamer reiterates. One-half of the group may have magical Scorpio powers with the ladies, but when it comes down to what they really want for the group, only performing can really satisfy their steez. Those same powers won’t get them where every other artist thinks they should be: signed to a major label.
Getting signed isn’t their main goal and the LoveCrusader believes that it’s not as important. “If we get signed, it’d be by doing shows.” Tuki somewhat agrees. “If we get signed, it’d be by doing shows.”
Excited about everything that’s to come: a new EP, music videos, and shows on all coasts, the LoveCrusader expresses how they stay positive and moving forward. “The album is coming. It’s gonna come when it comes cause we working, but it’s a family situation. We’re blessed.”
Mauldin Brand Agency (MBA) has joined forces with the Peoples Station V-103 and the Urban Speed Association to present an explosive new series of Motorsports inspired events this summer at Atlanta Motor Speedway, appropriately titled; “FastLife Fridays.”
Friday July 9th, you can purchase $7 tickets to hang out with Greg Street, JD's Daddy, and the rest of Atlanta's youngins. It should be more fun than I'm making it. Enjoy!
"We done been on the other side of this shit. Niggas can't get love in they home state and two years later when niggas blow, they be sayin' we always fucked with ya'll." - Little Brother
With the release of two mixtapes within a month and positive feedback regarding both, his biggest challenge isn’t making good music about his home it’s about being supported there. The Atlanta Brave has yet to be accepted, let alone seen by the city of Atlanta. He dances, reps a Southside city where the dope boys re-up, and gets down with Cyhi Da Prynce, so what’s the hold up? Who knows. As for now, forget about ever superman-ing that ho, he’s going Britney Spears on ya’ll motherfuckers.
Miss Solow Dolow: Where you at?
Donnis: I’m in New York City. I just got back from Vancouver, Canada. I did a show there. It was my favorite show I’ve done to date.
MSD: What was growing up in Atlanta like for you?
D: I’m a Jonesboro kid and Atlanta was all I knew. My pastimes in Atlanta are like everyone else’s. I’m a Waffle House, Cracker Barrel, Gladys Knight eating dude. Jonesboro isn’t what it used to be though. My neighborhood went from the ‘burbs to police raiding. The southside is like dope boy haven right about now. It’s crazy out there.
MSD: So you were a good kid?
D: I was cool. I never skipped school. I really loved girls and music which reflected in the bad ass grades that I made. Growing up in Georgia made me who I am. :cues Cee-Lo’s “Georgia”: I didn’t get mean ‘til I got to New York.
MSD: So are you confirming the stereotype that New York people are mean?
D: I think I am. I was too nice up here and now I can’t be nice to people because they are trying to screw you over. You can’t trust nobody up here from the cab drivers to asking for directions. They’ll fuck you up. But back home it ain’t a problem unless you make a problem in the A so I can bring it back down.
MSD: What artists in Atlanta are you feeling?
D: You know who I fuck with extra heavy? I fuck with Cyhi the Prynce. That nigga is dope and he is my fam. Of course I fuck with Hollyweerd cause they put on. These labels need to wake up and give them a chance. Other than rap, I’m not really aware of what’s going on in the city, but I’d love to be.
MSD: What is the difference between your fanbases up north and down south?
D: It depends on where in south really, but I feel like with Atlanta I still have to break through. There is a culture here in NY that is not looming in Atlanta with a whole bunch of rappers talking about something other than selling drugs. In Atlanta they are still popping with the dances and the one hit thing. I’m out here screaming for attention in my own city by dropping these mixtapes that sound like albums and I’m waiting on everybody to get it right.
MSD: So you don’t dance?
D: Oh I dance! I’m not hating on these rappers that make these dance songs cause I rock with them but how many more dance songs and simple lyric songs can they make?! Atlanta radio has to embrace all forms of music out there and they’re only embracing two types.
MSD: What does your growth look like in 5 years?
D: In five years I’m gonna be so fucking famous that I won’t know what to do with my gotdamn self. I’m gonna go Britney Spears on these muthafuckas!
MSD: How exactly do you go Britney Spears on someone?
D: By getting so famous you go crazy. Shoutout to that. Famous and Richness. So rich and so famous I’m gonna make a song. :cues Outkast’s “So Fresh So Clean”: Ain’t nobody rich as me I’m just so famous!
MSD: What are your plans for the rest of the year?
D: Lots of touring and we’re gonna continue to shoot videos for songs and getting this music out there. Just shot the campaign for T.I.’s Akoo label. We just shot the video for “Tonight” in Tokyo and that’ll be out soon.
MSD: What do you think you can really do to get Atlanta to fuck with you?
D: It’s something that is yet to be seen. The more everywhere else starts to embrace it the more Atlanta will come in and start fucking with it. It’s gonna take time. Atlanta on Gucci mane right now. I have a song with Gucci Mane and OJ da Juice but it takes more than that for the city to be like “Donnis is incredible.” It’s a challenge but I got DJ Infamous, DJ Champion, and DJ Holiday. They know what time it is. It’s gonna be something that eventually happens and when it does it’ll be dope.
MSD: Any last words?
D: I’m a sensation. I’m getting stopped in these NY streets cause I’m famous up here. Atlanta needs to wake up.
Atlanta's production aliens, SMKA, are bringing good music LIVE to Atliens everywhere throughout the summer.
Tonight they are kicking it off at Eastside Lounge at 9pm. The tix are $5 and you can get them here.
If you missed Tuesday night's show at 529 w/ Richelle L. Brown and my "sexy chocolate", then you can catch them again here at half price. My homey Niko Villamor and FKI will be hitting the stage as well.
Shouts to Desmond. I see you working hard and getting it in over there.
I will be reviewing the show at my summer place of freelance residence: A3C, so catch the recap there.
Check out this new Aleon Craft to start your night off.
"Rap is too much like high school. It's a popularity contest but at the end of the day, it's all bullshit. But hell yeah, I was popular," Freddie Gibbs states. And just like any popular student, the talented football athlete loves the ladies. Presently in Los Angeles, he sees a lot of pretty girls in a cool breeze and under heightened circumstances. "I love the weather, the weed and the women. It’s enough to keep me satisfied.” As good as that sounds, there is more to the proclaimed gangster than one can expect after listening to his ghetto tracks and murder cuts.
Fresh out of Indiana with his hometown Gary on his back, Gangsta Gibbs doesn’t regret any past decisions. He laughs when discussing his gangster life but his time in the streets is far from over. His position in the hood hasn’t much changed, but its’ duties have. “I’ve dibbled and dabbled in street activities. It is what it is and everything I rap about I’ve lived it. That’s definitely something that I’ve been affiliated with, but that’s not all that makes me. That’s not all I’m about. As he understands what being affiliated with the streets can do, he creates music that raises awareness about what’s only going on not just in Gary but throughout the Midwest and the nation. Gibbs stands for much more that what’s happening on a sidewalk. “My music raises awareness to where we are as a people and what’s really going on. I don’t talk about it to glorify it but it’s the truth and it comes with the territory. We [artists] gotta put it out there.”
Gibbs puts it out there. His first two mixtape releases The Miseducation of Freddie Gibbs and midwestgangstaboxframecadillacmuzik were positively received with comparisons to many influential west coast and Southern rappers; reliving memories of a hip hop that was intellectual and stood for the people. He sees the honor in being recognized with these artists, but that’s not what he is necessarily striving for. “As an artist you wanna stay away from comparisons and stand out on your own and be an individual. I can’t deny the fact I grew up listening to Tupac. Someone that made a huge mark on something you definitely have to pay homage. It’s definitely a blessing to be spoken in the same breath as him, but I definitely don’t strive to be him.”
Gibbs enjoys music from Chicago group LEP Bogus Boys and southern cats Yo Gotti and Alley Boy but right now, he feels recent releases in hip hop are not up to par. In other words… “I listen to a lot of R&B now cause that new rap is wack to me. It’s a lot of that bullshit out there but it is what it is. What can you do?”
His past relationships with major record labels present a future of independence for the rapper who does everything himself with no help from the big dogs. Getting a deal is not as important to him as progressing and becoming a better performer for his supporters. “That’s not my day to day goal. I’m making the record, working the record, and I got my own shit popping. What the fuck is the point of me fucking with them? I ain’t worried about being in cahoots and being buddies with these label dudes.”
Making money is not an issue for Gibbs, it’s how he makes it and who it affects. He is doing what he can and making moves to become the best rapper. Selling out is not an option. The money will come as far as he knows. “I want to maintain my respect level and if I do that then I’ll make money. I do this shit because I love doing it. I wouldn’t do something out of the ordinary to get a paycheck.”
Str8 Killa No Filla is his newest collection of urban anthems and street music. He even has something for the women; unfortunately, it’s not as flattering as he thinks it may sound. “I got a song for the ladies, it’s called “Pussy So Amazing.” The mixtape has collaborations with Bun B and fellow XXL classmate Pill. Gibbs suspects that when you get a whiff of the upcoming release it’s going to be like that dope, raw, uncut, straight-hit-you-in-the-face-when-you-get-it-you-gone-be-like-whoa type of feeling.
Celebrating his June 14th birthday all month, he’s headed to the city of nice size behinds and relaxation. “It’s real open and a refresher. Lots of big booties in Atlanta. Lots of nice women down there and I like that the most.” We know it doesn’t take much to satisfy him. He’s buying the bar with his new drink Gibbs Lemonade. “Hennessy and Lemonade. Invented by me.” Let’s hope our weed adds up to Cali for the night.
Hosted by one of my favorite writers, Freddie Gibbs and Jackie Chain will be in Atlanta for the Str8 Killa No Filla show (post bday celebration for Gangsta Gibbs).
Get your tickets here folks. They are only $10, it's summer time, and nothing else is happening on a Tuesday in Atlanta. You and I both know. Richelle L. Brown, Aleon Craft, Tom P and Mic Audio will be in the building.
As KRS-One’s “Self-Destruction” plays throughout City of Atlanta’s old city chambers, members of the community settle into the meeting area. Tuesday night’s town hall meeting, hosted by V-103’s Ryan Cameron and Atlanta, Ga. Mayor Kasim Reed, is in response to the violence and chaos that ensued at PiedmontPark’s annual movie event Screen on the Green. In the first half hour of the screening, it was reported that several fight broke out, there was vandalism throughout the park.
However, no more than thirty minutes of the chamber doors becoming open to the public, there was uproar when several umbrellas were stolen from the audience members. The dispute created a tense atmosphere as the meeting started.
Mayor Kasim Reed and Atlanta police department’s interim Chief George Turner were on the meeting panel to discuss the specifics of the problems that took place two weeks ago in the park and answer any questions from community members.
“It was a new location, it was the event’s first time showing a major motion picture [Transformers 2] and there was only an expected attendance of 2,000 guests. There were more than 10,000 attendees on site. Security was adequate for what was expected, not unexpected,” Sheriff Turner explained.
Mayor Reed, whose platform for office was to decrease city crime, explained that he has fought for and spent close to $4 million to re-open the recently closed pools and recreation centers in the city. He believes that the re-opened locales, youth programming, and jobs for students after school will lower the increasing crime in the city.
“We must invest in the children and the generation coming behind us. I want to meet with everyone in this room personally that wants to do better for our kids.”
Screen on the Green with continue this week at PiedmontPark with a screening of “Dreamgirls”. The new improvements to security from the city include the Atlanta police department hired to patrol the venue and calling in back up resources when necessary to crowd size adjustments. Also, Nextel Direct walkie-talkies have been added to assist with communication between park staff and all officers. Staff from the Mayor’s office will be on site to help with city questions and concerns from movie-goers.
KRS-One, Kool Moe Dee, MC Lyte, Doug E. Fresh, Heavy D, Public Enemy, Stetsasonic
"Self-Destruction"
Happy birthday to a man that was the epitome of art and music. Tonight we are celebrating his birthday with Pill, Bun B, Roscoe Dash, and more. Be in the building for a night dedicated to one of the best lyricists ever placed upon us hip hop heads! The celebration will be held at Amaru Shakur Center for the Arts on Memorial Drive in Stone Mountain (Da Mound for my eastsiders). Doors open at 7pm. Show starts at 8pm. Buy your tickets here. I leave you with my favorite song from 2pac and Biggie. I hold it very dear to my heart.
It's still sad to know a talent like Tupac is not here with us. Honestly, I can say that if 2pac and Big were still here there would be no Soulja Boy. Shakur is so special he gets 15 songs! Tomorrow I will be covering the celebration of 2pac's birthday with Bun B, Pill, and the like on the eastside. I hope to see you guys there. Enjoy and reminisce.
Nigerian born and German made vocalist Nneka will be blazing Tabernacle's stage on Saturday night.
My editor at CL put me on to her and this girl is good! Africa is the future and I hate to bring it up but the 419 scam was obviously way before anyone's time.
Her music is phenomenal and her voice is a treasure. Support good music ya'll and get there early so you don't miss what she had in store for Atlanta.
Doors open at 8pm. Show starts at 9pm. The show is at the Tabernacle. Get your tickets here (beware the $15 additional fee).
Happy birthday Lyric! Miss Jones if you nasty LOL! I hope you have a great birthday and everyone comes to celebrate with you tomorrow night.
Peep info dolow for her birthday celebration at Apache Cafe.
My Birthday is on June 10th, but I’m celebrating it on the 11th with an EPIC concert featuring some of my favorite and the most influential artists in the ATL.
Aside from this being my birthday celebration, it will be the FIRST show of my very own in ATLANTA!! DOPE RIGHT!?
I’m Hella excited, and would LOVED for YOU to be apart of this special, HISTORIC night with me.
The night will feature two segments to mirror, represent and celebrate my 22nd birthday. (playing with the theme of being a Gemini AND 22 ;-D)
There will be a SOUL segment and HIP HOP segment displaying 4 of ATL hottest artists. 2 of each. The night will be STARRING me – Lyric Jones and featuring:
Boog Brown, Small Eyez, Chantae Cann, and Avery Sunshine
Special guest performances by:
Coco Jones
The Remnant Cru
The 5ive
Abyss
Ness Lee
&
Stanza
Hosted by Alias
DJ Sly Fauxx on the 1&2s
This will be a fun-filled night of live authentic Soul and Hip Hop and to celebrate the diversity in musical talent in the ATL area.
Doors @ 9:00pm
Admission: $10
18+
DOUBLE TAKE
Apache Cafe
64 3rd Street NW
Atlanta, GA 30308
Enjoying the relaunch so far?! If you don't watch any video in this post, PLEASE WATCH LADY GAGA! It's good for your health and you don't even know it! Wait til next week, it's gonna get even better! New videos dolow!
Lady Gaga - Alejandro (This is a damn good video. I love Gaga.)
Trey Songz - Already Taken (I really like this song. I've been on my Trey Songz lately. Weird I know.)
Vikter Duplaix - Electric Love (What ya'll know bout Vikter? He lowkey reminds me of Craig David.)
Wiz Khalifa - Up (I love this song! Taylor gang fool!)
For the past couple years, Atlanta singer-songwriter-pianist Avery Sunshine has working on an R&B masterpiece and now that it’s time for release, the world isn’t ready. Her talent goes all the way back to the church but catching a crowd with her voice and songs about love, family and relationships is a true skill. Being a mother, performer and hard-working individual, she’s here to show every woman that there is still sunshine and a smile in every situation. And everybody loves it.
MSD: How was your birthday?
AS: My b-day was off the chain. Joyce Little from V-103 had an event in her hometown Athens, Ga. I opened for Ken Ford. I finally got my band together and it was wonderful. I can’t wait to go back to Athens.
MSD: Who are some of you inspirations and comparisons:
AS: I think my favorite singer who ever lived was Luther Vandross. He was very natural but very particular. I don’t care where he is, he is always on. Gladys Knight, Mary J. Blige, Chaka Khan, Teena Marie, Patti Labelle. Donny Hathaway, Herbie Hancock, Michael Jackson. I always get compared to Jill Scott and Chaka Khan. It’s such an honor to even be put in the same list as them because I look up to them so much.
MSD: Who do you feel you represent?
AS: The young, single parent, thick girl. The girl that is trying to go after her dreams. The working mom. I represent those women. The pioneer mommies. It can be done.
MSD: What do you do to gain new supporters and fans?
AS: Gigging. And as for facebook and twitter at first I didn’t want to do it but I see it really makes sense. It’s so weird to call people fans, but that’s how I can be in touch with the people who like my music. People don’t have to support you but when they do I like to try to thank them. I want to make sure I touch the people who spend their hard earn dollars towards my dream.
MSD: What exactly is Pinin?
AS: I have never heard the word pinin’ until I moved to Georgia. We were gossiping at church and my friend said “You know she still pinin’ over that man.” The idea of the song? Well, the hook says “Can’t get you out of my head/ Can’t get you out of my system/ I’m still wanting you/ I don’t care who know it/ 20 long years have passed and I’m still pinin over over.” That’s one of my favorite songs on the album.
MSD: What else can we expect from the Sunshine album?
AS: The Roy Ayers is on the album. Yes! [sings] Everybody loves the sunshineee. He’s on the album and he allowed me to do a snippet of the album. He’s also on a song called “The Most” that me and my music partner Dana wrote about our children. It’s kind of a lullaby to our children. I got some Philly stuff on it so you can put your hat on backwards and kinda bump with that! I have a contemporary arrangement of “The Lord is Blessing Me” on there cause you know I came out the church. I think it’s a great album and I guess I say that because it’s mine and I feel I can say that because God gave us this material. We can’t take credit for it. I thank God for letting me be a vessel.
MSD: How do you have sunshine?
AS: Clearly I have my days but it’s so interesting that the moments that I am the lowest, I am reminded by fans or someone on twitter about my songs. What you put out is what you get back. I try my best to put it out and at those low points I tend to get it back.
MSD: Upcoming projects:
AS: I’m featured on I-Tunes with my latest single “Pinin”. I am gearing up for this contemporary opera called “I Dream” at the Alliance Theatre. It is MLK’s I Have A Dream speech done from a different perspective and it is of The Color Purple caliber. This is my first time doing something like this and the world is gonna be fascinated by this production. The album comes out June 21st. It will be available on Amazon and Itunes.
