Joseph Chilliams wins with Henry Church
September 1, 2017mixtapes,Pivot Gang,Saba,Joseph Chilliams,Chicago,NonameMusic,News
Pivot Gang's Joseph Chilliams released his debut mixtape, Henry Church, about a week ago and then celebrated with a sold out show at Schubas. The project, which consists of 13 songs and features homies such as MfnMelo, Saba, NoName, and others, is cohesive project chock full of pop-culture references, regular-guy observations, and a fun energy throughout. That's not to say that Henry Church is devoid of seriousness or melancholy. Many of Joseph's observations are told with an air of concern and a subdued tone, especially when remembering John Walt, who was tragically killed last spring. From the cover art, to the videos, to the music, it is clear that Chilliams is serious in not taking himself too seriously. And he's winning. Enjoy the project via Soundcloud below.
Hip-hop takes over Chicago in The Breaks
August 31, 2017Immortal Techique,Stoupe the Enemy of Mankind,Joell Ortiz,Kxng Crooked,Never,Kilo,Wildstlye,members Coldhard,Crucial Conflict,Mac Lethal,Jedi Mind Tricks,Kanye West,Method Man & Reman,Cheef Keef and Chance The Rapper,Do Or Die,Tech N9ne,Slaughterhouse,Rittz,Joe Budden,Cam'ronNews,Music
In recent years the Chicago’s hip-hop scene has grown global with the popularity of rappers like Kanye West, Chief Keef and Chance The Rapper. This weekend hip-hop comes to the city with a varsity roster of hip-hop heavyweights. These massive original kings in the hip-hop community take over Chicago for The Breaks.
Hosted in the largest venue in the city at Solider Field, it will host some of the best names to ever pick up the mic. Hip-hop legends Tech N9ne, Method Man & Redman are set to headline from By A Thread’s Vol. 1 The Breaks.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UNRdr1w3rBs
Slaughterhouse’s Royce Da 5’9, Joe Budden, Kxng Crooked and Joell Ortiz will bring their Shady Records aggression to The Breaks.
Harlem rapper and no stranger to controversies Cam’ron returns to Chicago. Activist and rapper Immortal Technique is also scheduled to bring his lyrically story driven raps to life at The Breaks.
Chicago’s own Crucial Conflict will bring members Coldhard, Wildstlye, Kilo and Never back together. Crucial Conflict aren’t the own hometown favorites. Belo Zero, N.A.R.D and AK from Do or Die will also add to the already impressive lineup.
Opening the night, the earlier spots are nothing to sleep on. Rittz, who just announced a new forthcoming album, is one of the openers who will guarantee earlier arrivals. YouTube and fast rapper Mac Lethal brings his fast flow to the main stage.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8l75Z8wil_U
Underground Philadelphia group Jedi Mind Tricks will bring scratch expert DJ Kwestion, classic prouder Stoupe the Enemy of Mankind and lyricist Vinnie Paz to The Breaks.
The Breaks has many hip-hop heads old and new excited to see these legends on the stage. This weekend it will be a throwback to a long catalog of classics. Tickets are still available for purchase here.
The Breaks
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4-p2HQ2esrQ
[Watch] Lollapalooza 2017 Live Stream compliments of Chicago Music & Red Bull Tv
July 31, 2017chicago music,Festival,Lollapalooza 2017,lollapalooza live streamMusic,News
Don't miss out the action for Lollapalooza 2017. Chicago Music and Red Bull Tv will bring the festival right to your smartphone, tablet, home etc. Pick from 3 channels beginning August 3, 5:30pm-10pm and August 4-6, 2pm-10pm CST.
Lollapalooza Live Stream sponsored by Red Bull Tv and Chicago Music.
[Review] Chicago Open Air 2017 descends on Toyota Park
July 18, 2017chicago open airMusic,Reviews
With a lineup that included Kiss, Rob Zombie, Megadeth, Ozzy Osbourne, Korn and the mythical group Anthrax, this year’s Chicago Open Air brought together the biggest names in hard rock and heavy metal. On its first edition, which was celebrated last year, it was the only 2016 event that hosted a live show of Rammstein in the US, and following a triumphant first round, it was ready for a second chance. Taking place in Toyota Park, and offering gourmet food as well as craft beer, the festival’s second edition started on Friday 14 July and ended on Sunday 16 July, leaving the audience satisfied.

Once of the most celebrated concerts of the event was that of Anthrax, which took place on Friday and was welcomed by the crowd with great excitement. Formed in 1981 in New York by bassist Dan Lilker and guitarist Scott Ian, Anthrax was at the heart of the thrash scene during the 80s and included as one of the Big Four along with Slayer, Megadeth and Metallica (the first two also played at Open Air this year). Having sold close to 10 million records since the 90s, the band released a live album in 2017. Defined by Rolling Stone magazine as one the few bands that reshaped heavy metal in the 80s, the audience was eager to see Anthrax on stage one more time as it delivered an impeccable show. After saying "Thank you for having us back!", Scott Ian started playing one of their most famous tunes, "Caught in a Mosh." Born in 1963, this famous rhythm guitarist is the only founding member of Anthrax who has stayed in the band to this day and is also in charge of all the album lyrics. He has been involved in several other projects following his success with the metal group, including hosting a TV show, writing special issues for DC comics and even taking part in WSOP events, showing that one can succeed in more than one passion and be good at it. And so, living up to the expectations, multifaceted Scott Ian and Joey Belladonna delivered a great 45-minute concert.
Less than hour later, Megadeth took the stage, although perhaps their overall performance was not as memorable as that of Anthrax. In any case, fans of one of the Big Four seemed satisfied listening to tunes like "Sweating Bullets" or the classic "Hangar 18". The day closed with Rob Zombie and KISS, the latter being as fun as it always is. Included in the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame, KISS is as emblematic as a band can be, and its members have often appeared in films — most recently in the blockbuster American comedy Why Him? — and been featured in other aspects of popular culture.

Photographer: Brett Bergen
Godsmack’s Sully Erna, Robbie Merrill, Tony Rombola and Shannon Larkin played before a massive audience (perhaps the largest one of the festival at that point), and Korn closed the night on Saturday, making its second appearance at this festival, although now as the central band on the main stage. They delivered an energetic and fresh concert, paying tribute to nu metal, yet daring to introduce other rhythms. Slayer and Ozzy Osbourne — who has also been involved in other enterprises like the famous MTV reality show The Osbournes — played their parts on Sunday, at the end of the successful, and in many ways nostalgic, weekend of Open Air Chicago. We should expect to see a third edition of this festival next year, now that it has secured itself a place among the main events taking place in Chicago during the summer.
Vic Mensa's debut album The Autobiography available for Pre Order
July 13, 2017Vic Mensa,music,Hiphop,Jay-Z,Chicago,rapper,chicagomusic,the autobiography,rocnationMusic,Reviews
Vic Mensa announced the release date and title of his debut album, The Autobiography. Releasing on July 28, Mensa’s highly anticipated debut will give the Chicago rapper his first major introduction into the music world. Pre Order The Autobiography here on Apple Music.
From his latest projects like the There’s A lot Going On EP. To his most recent work in what he calls a capsule of music in The Manuscript, this is a whole new Mensa.
Mensa has matured in front of our eyes and through his music over the years. Tacking heavy issues from the Laquan McDonald shooting, Flint water crisis, self-harm and drug addiction Mensa has stated The Autobiography will be his most personal yet.
https://twitter.com/VicMensa/status/885298384080261120
Mensa took to Twitter to announce The Autobiography to fans. Using screenshots of different locations. Mensa had fans post a photo of themselves for a chance to listen to his album.
https://twitter.com/VicMensa/status/884811399179886592
Hearing Mensa’s dark and serious tone packed with gut punching lyrics in There’s A lot Going On and The Manuscript, July 28 can’t come soon enough.
If you haven’t already check out Mensa’s recent release of the music video for “OMG”.“OMG” was a Tidal exclusive, now streaming everywhere you can check out Mensa’s release from The Manuscript.
The Pharrell produced track features Pusha T and has guest appearances from Pusha T, Ethan Cutkosky, Joey Purp and Towkio.
[youtube id="SJKnfoSpUOw"]
Check out these 5 Chicago artists at Lollapalooza. Whitney, Noname, Kweku Collins, The O'My's and Chance The Rapper
July 5, 2017music,Chance The Rapper,Rock,Festival,Hiphop,Pop,Punk,Rap,The O'My's,Chicago,Noname,Lollapalooza 2017,whitney,kweku collinsMusic,Reviews
Let’s dive into the incredible lineup at this year’s Lollapalooza. Chicago artists came to represent at one of the largest music festivals in the world. The talent to tough but their Chicago breed artist standout in a big way. Below let’s visit five artists that call Chicago their home that you absolutely can’t miss at this year’s Lollapalooza!
[youtube id="S25cOz18__U"]
Whitney
Indie-rock band Whitney will represent the Chicago indie scene well. The young band will have the perfect match of blended tunes and heart wrenching lyrics. Their debut album Light Upon the Lake is one of the best pieces of work coming out from Chicago in the past few years. Seeing them rock the stage at Lollapalooza will be a great experience for the young band. It definitely won’t be the last time on the Lollapalooza stage.
[youtube id="K58JYXhb4YA"]
Noname
After an incredible year of appearances at Saturday Night Live, Bronzeville native Noname will be making her Lollapalooza debut. The spoken word artist made the past year her own with her soulful and honest approach to storytelling that we hear in her latest protect, Telefone.
[youtube id="nl6OW07A5q4"]
Kweku Collins
Closed Sessions rapper Kweku Collins will bring his poetry and melodic rap sound to life at Lollapalooza. Making his Lollapalooza debut, the Evanston (close enough) native will represent the young label well. He will be rubbing shoulders with some heavyweight rapper while making a bold appearance at Lollapalooza in his own right.
[youtube id="9XVok-dP95s"]
The O’ My’s
Rock meets soul back again when the O’ My’s return at Lollapalooza. Showing early support in their career to the likes of Chance The Rapper, the O’ My’s will receive a long overdue warm welcome. Seeing Maceo Haymes taking the stage with Nick Hennessey, Boyang Matsapola, Baron Golden, Erick Mateo will bring the longtime Chicago favorites to new heights. If you haven’t already do yourself a favor and check out their EP, Keeping The Faith.
[youtube id="be37-T72DNk"]
Chance The Rapper
This one goes without saying. If you’re from Chicago, you have to come through and support Chicago’s biggest name in the business. Chance The Rapper just a few short years ago performed at the smaller BMI stage. This year, Chance The Rapper will headline August 5 on the main stage expecting his biggest crowd to date.
After a number of incredible accolades for the young 24-year-old artist, Chance The Rapper will bring it all home at Lollapalooza. After his three well deserved Grammy wins, donating over 1 million dollars to the Chicago Public School District and widely praised third released mixtape Coloring Book, Chance’s set will be one to remember for years to come.
4-Day Passes and single day passes are currently sold-out, VIP passes are now at Lollapalooza.com.
[Review] Jay Z's 4:44 album is refreshing and makes your mind wander and reflect
June 30, 2017hip hop,rap music,Album,Beyoncé,Jay-Z,rapper,4:44,hov,tidalMusic,Reviews
I owe Jay Z an apology. Since Watch The Throne, I've said "Jay doesn't need to rap anymore." "He's too rich, now." "Jay Z' is above this world of hip-hop to connect with his core audience." The 4:44 album is proof that I was dead wrong. It also proves Jay Z can do anything and he should never be questioned or doubted ever in the world of hip-hop. 4:44 is Jay Z's "Back To The Future II album". It's like the album is recorded in an alternate time warp between 1999-2001. Much like Marty when he had to go to the "other 1985" to make things right for the future of his existence in others. Big Homey Jay has returned and the game is being redirected.
Tracks like "Kill Jay Z", "4:44" and "Smile", give the most revealing Jay ever. He really gives us real clips on his personal life. His struggles of being a married man, a father and a softer individual with feelings that deals with emotions. Something we rarely got over the last 2 decades. He touches on every possible instance that ever made the media and the watching and talking streets. Kanye, Solange, Beyonce, Un and much more. It's refreshing and makes your mind wander and reflect on the life you've had a privilege to watch all this time.
Then you have joints like "Family Feud", "Bam" and "The Story of O.J". These joints put in perspective who really getting this money and moving right out here. Nobody can ever out rap Jay Z when it's time for show and tell. From the tone to the bar itself. If Jay Z says he's got it. You believe it. Blue and the twins have an 8 million dollar painting to cash in right now. Everybody holding money to their ear still making collect calls to Hov and he's not taking collect calls.
"Moonlight" "Caught Their Eye" attacks the industry and everything messed up in it. From the flows to the record deals, Prince and more. It's just that standard "Big Homey Talk" that Hov has been giving out for years.
Is 4:44 the best Jay Z album? You can honestly argue it. This album is 180 growth from Reasonable Doubt. This is The Dynasty content with more detail. This is everything we thought Magna Carta Holy Grail would be. Not to mention Jay Z is still rapping at a high level. "Shinning" and other moments over the last 4 years are easily forgettable after the first 4 tracks on this album. It will honestly be many Jay fans and rightfully so. Chances are if you're a day 1 Jay z fan in real time. [Meaning you bought Reasonable Doubt by at least 1998] You're between 32-38 or older. Which means you and Jay will have an adult conversation about the life he's lived. A life like none other. Take a seat and chill with ya mans and catch up with him. What you doing at 4:44 anyway?
The Story of O.J.
Freddie Gibbs You Only Live 2wice concert at the Metro Chicago
June 24, 2017Freddie Gibbs,music,Hiphop,Metro,Chicago,gangsta gibbs,you only live 2wice,imkevinbakerMusic,Reviews
Indiana rapper Freddie Gibbs had his share of ups and downs throughout his life, yet he shakes it off like it's nothing. When Gibbs took the stage the crowd went absolutely crazy. Welcoming him home with a lot of love is what fueled Gangsta Gibbs. He seemed to be in good spirits during his show at the Metro Thursday night and clearly enjoying being back in the rap game. Gibbs performed cuts from his latest album, You Only Live 2wice, including "20 Karat Jesus." He also blazed through hits from his previous records ESGN and Shadow of a Doubt. Relive the night with our photo gallery below.
Words by Ashley Perez
Freddie Gibbs Photos by: Kevin Baker
Freddie Gibbs Video shot by: Kevin Baker. Chopped by Lateef Idris
Such a dope show @FreddieGibbs You Only Live 2wice tour. Get yall tickets! 🎥 #imkevinbaker @_chicagomusic_ #YOL2 #ESGN #KaneSeason #chicago pic.twitter.com/JmAao3SHXr
— ImKevinBaker.com (@imkevinbaker) July 7, 2017