Lupe Fiasco: "Jonylah Forever"
In stand up Lupe Fiasco fashion he has kept his eyes on the horrific violence that plagues his hometown each day, and today he released a track titled "Jonylah Forever". The track is a tribute to the late Jonylah, a 6-month old baby who was killed as her father was changing her diaper in a south side van. Lupe takes this track to many different places, describing the life of a child growing up in Chicago, only to witness the horrific murder that took place. I don't know when people will start to pay attention to what Lupe is doing, but you'd hope we would wake up at some point. RIP Jonylah. Thank you Lupe.
[Video] Kids These Days: Decodes "Who Do U-Luv"
A couple weeks back I hit the Kids These Days rehearsal studio in the west loop with some friends from Life+Times. The session was great, as the energetic prodigious band decoded their Traphouse Rock single "Who Do U-Luv" for Jay-Z's Life+Times website. The site also covered Chance The Rapper as of late, helping showcase Chicago's most talented new artists to an international audience. Shot by the Scheme Engine team.
http://youtu.be/xdxjvc5dwCI
[Mixtape] SDotBraddy x Pouya: Warbucks
The good homie SDotBraddy is here with his first project of 2013, in Warbucks, a collaboration with fellow emcee Pouya. I was introduced to Braddy after hearing tracks leading up to his 2012 Innovation project, which brought a new, honest look at lyricists from Miami. The drill-esque knocking beats are a theme, but Braddy & Pouya utilize influences from all coasts and eras to create a unique sound on Warbucks. Features from Young Dazzie Dazz and Raider Klans own Denzel Curry. Stream and Download below.
[Video] In Studio Interview With Na$im Williams
Na$im Williams is readying his newest project EOH, which will truly showcase the talents of the rising local producer. Na$im released the Triple Darkness Intro last week, the first audible leak from the upcoming EP and today he sits down in the Grind House, describing his craft, beliefs and hopes in the interview clip below. Emotions of H.E.R coming soon.
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[Video] Spenzo: "Started From The Bottom" (Freestyle)
Spenzo is here with new visuals for his take of Drake's "Started From The Bottom". As Drake has been clowned for his take on what "The Bottom" actual is, Spenz surely has a story to tell with this one. Filmed on location in Englewood after a night in the studio with DJ L , the clip was shot + edited by videographer Ben Vogel and produced by Daniel Poneman. Definitely a dope clip for the short piece of work. Stream below.
Giftz & YP: "One Time"
Two of Chicago's most lyrical spitters emitting from the east side are here today with some newness in the form of "One Time". Giftz had a very promising 2012, as did YP after inking a deal with Universal Republic earlier in the year. Now in 2013 both emcee's are looking to take their craft nationwide. This should work. Peep "One Time" below.
[EP] Major Lazer: Lazer Strikes Back Vol. 2
As Major Lazer’s preps their sophomore album Free The Universe, they are here today with Lazer Strikes Back Vol. 2, the second in a planned trilogy of EPs. Vol. 2 features remixes from Flosstradamus, Blood Diamonds, the Reef, and a new track with Baauer and reggae star Popcaan (Blocka). Download below.
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Lil Wayne: "Rich as F*ck" Feat. 2 Chainz
Wayne is such an interested character in the industry in 2013. He has been a fixture of the scene for over 10 years straight, and somehow is still one of the most notable emcee's in the game, seemingly without evolving his content structure once in the past 2 or so years. Either way the international superstar is here today with his new I Am Not A Human Being II single, "Rich as F*ck" feat. 2 Chainz. Bet you didn't expect that.