Search "career crooks" 311 Items

Veteran Toronto MC, Dan-e-o debuted in 1996 with his first single “Dear Hip Hop” - now considered a Canadian Hip-Hop classic. The release sparked a more than two-decade career complete with numerous album releases, battle rap victories and a growing actor’s resume. On April 23, 2014, Dan-e-o became a father. His fifth solo album, "The Day It All Changed" doubles as a soulful ode to his wonderful daughter, Melina and his most mature, polished presentation of lyricism to date. The LP features guest appearances from Wordsworth, Pearl Gates, Choclair, Ro Dolla and up-and-coming R&B sensation, Xentury.

Ever since he emerged with "Huzzah" six years ago, Mr. Muthafuckin' eXquire has remained one of the most fascinating lyricists to come out of New York City in years. His career has been a bumpy road, signing with Interscope and then leaving soon after, but his pen has always remained consistent. Now he's back with his first project in almost two years.
To be clear, eXquire is still just as brilliant as he's always been. His raps are tormented and dense with emotion, while his flows are like constellations, hard to track but dazzling to witness. Alchemist, Parallel Thought and Constrobuz are some of the producers on the project, while Meyhem Lauren is the sole feature.

20th Anniversary reissue of El-Ps debut he released to critical acclaim after Company Flow split up. Now famous for his work with Killer Mike for Run The Jewels. This HHV exclusive edition is limited to 500 copies.

Debuted #198 on Billboard Top 200 in its original release
8.9 review on Pitchfork
Ranked #11 top album of 2002
#21 hip-hop album of all time by Fact Magazine

Fantastic Damage marked the beginning of El-P’s career as a solo artist, following a groundbreaking career as frontman and producer of legendary NYC underground hip hop crew, Company Flow. Fan Dam was a foundational release for his fledgling record label. Definitive Jux, which would soon establish itself as an iconic juggernaut of independent rap in the wake of trailblazing solo records by El-P and label mates Aesop Rock, Cannibal Ox, RJD2, Murs, and more. The template El-P established on Fantastic Damage - a singular aesthetic pairing futuristic, post B-Boy production style with insightful, provocative & often prescient subject matter - was met with accolades across the media landscape, including Rolling Stone, Entertainment Weekly, Pitchfork, NME, VIBE, and SPIN among many others. The impact and influence of Fantastic Damage established it as one of the most important independent releases of its era, and charted a course to be followed by generations of artists in its wake. The album has been widely unavailable since El-P put Def Jux on hiatus in 2010, making it ripe for rediscovery in the new music ecosystem due to El-P’s monumental success with Run The Jewels.

Why you'll love it...
By All Means Necessary is often discussed like it’s some departure from Criminal Minded. The moment KRS turned into “The Teacha” and became a politically minded, socially conscious wordsmith. In reality, this is who he already was. Misunderstanding and tragedy is what compelled him to not only refocus on the role he wanted to play in hip-hop, but create an album that gave way to a very important movement in hip-hop, too.

By All Means Necessary is an essential and definitive BDP and KRS album. It marks the moment where KRS wasn’t just concerned with being a great emcee but a teacher, too, continuing his exploration of sociopolitical subjects on BDP’s following three albums, as well as throughout his solo career.

Spanning 23 years of recorded output, Grammy Award winning artist Bilal performed a mid-career retrospective featuring an ensemble of luminaries from his storied musical tribe. For one night only, the supergroup re-worked standouts from a genre-defying catalog including Bilal’s debut, "1st Born Second", his famously unreleased sophomore album, "Love For Sale" (from which "Something To Hold" and "All For Love" herein become its first commercially available releases), "Airtight’s Revenge", Common’s seminal Soulquarian-era "Like Water for Chocolate", as well as premiering Bilal’s newest song, "Humility". The concert was recorded, filmed and livestreamed from Glasshaus in Brooklyn, New York on December 02, 2023 for a studio audience of 100 guests.

Limited edition of 300 copies on black vinyl of "Résonance", the all new album by Kalhex.

The trio consisting of Montreal-based Le Makizar and Paris-based brothers Parental & Lex finally teams up again to present their new album "Résonance". The vinyl includes 12 tracks in total with features by MC Grey and Shing02 plus 10 instrumental versions. Additional production support is provided by Parisian beatsmith Alcynoos.

After more than a decade respectively developing their solo careers, Le Makizar, Parental & Lex drop all new music enlighted by multi-layered instrumentals & lyrics in a deep-Jazz infused vibe. Once again, Parental’s dreamy powerful beats perfectly serve Lex & Le Makizar’s poetic and abstract mellow flows.

After releasing a successful collaboration album last year, Memphis, TN artist, Young Dolph returns with his highest charting album in his career, Rich Slave. The title is Dolph's commentary on how he is perceived – that no matter how much money he has – in the eyes of America, he will always be a slave. Rich Slave is the album that Young Dolph has shown growth in the sense that he has touched on current events, and social commentary with songs like, The Land that say, "they say this the land of the free, but it looks like the land of bullshit to me". With little features aside from Megan Thee Stallion, Key Glock, and G Herbo, Rich Slave showcases Young Dolph's charismatic skill, and ability to inspire those after him to pursue entrepreneurship.

Kuniko is releasing her first 12"ep, expressing her own identity. The unique and new style, centered around the theme of "inheritance and creation," is being sent out to the world. During childhood, Kuniko sang at local festivals, learned piano and electone, and grew up surrounded by music. In 2009, she had a groundbreaking encounter with the influential figure Mala, a pioneer in the UK bass culture and dubstep scene. She also met DJ mentor Yama aka Sahib. Inspired by these experiences, she started her career as a DJ in Tokyo, expressing herself through music. In 2013, she relocated to her roots in Okinawa, where she established her base. There, she learned the traditional Okinawan art of singing and playing the sanshin from her mentor, Misako Ohshiro.

Jabee's Am I Good Enough is the prolific OKC hip-hop artist’s most ambitious project to date. Several years in the making, Am I Good Enough compiles four EPs of brand-new music (22 tracks total), each recorded entirely with a different producer. The resulting four EPs each could stand alone as powerful individual works, but combine to make one of the most remarkable and compelling artistic statements of Jabee’s career. Am: produced by Derek Minor I: produced by Blu Good: produced by Conductor Williams Enough: produced by Havoc (of Mobb Deep) Am I Good Enough is available on 2xLP, housed in a gatefold jacket with inner sleeves showcasing each of the four EP’s individual covers.

Growing up in his hometown of Atlanta, artist/producer Sol Messiah has always been inundated with the rich and energizing spirit of Hip Hop culture. Breakdancing from a young age eventually led him joining the legendary Rock Steady Crew out of New York City and learning and mastering the skill of DJing. From there, he began taking an interest in production too, which ultimately led him to working alongside legendary Atlanta producer, Dallas Austin. While Sol Messiah's time with Austin created a deep catalog filled with timeless tracks for TLC, Madonna, Boyz II Men and more, he eventually chose to pursue his own path independently and spent years building a stunning catalog of his own, producing popular tracks for Chamillionaire, David Banner, Nappy Roots, Dead Prez and more. Soon, Sol Messiah would embark on a fruitful musical partnership with a fierce lyricist named Sa-Roc. Together, Sa-Roc and Messiah have released over a dozen projects thus far, including Sa-Roc's groundbreaking 2020 debut on Rhymesayers Entertainment, The Sharecropper's Daughter. As a duo, Sa-Roc and Sol Messiah have amassed a global reach, touring internationally and rocking crowds across continents. They have performed at the legendary Jazz Cafe in London, performed live for BBC, and have shared the stage with luminaries such as Common, The Roots and Jay Electronica. On GOD Cmplx, Sol Messiah connects with some of the finest MCs in the game to create an impressive collection of Hip Hop music that's both innovative and inspiring. Featuring guest performances from Kxng Crooked, Sa-Roc, Evidence, Locksmith, Slug (

serpentwithfeet, the Baltimore-born singer and songwriter, is a versatile talent who moves naturally from chapter to chapter in his career. His third album, Grip, is based on the dance floor of black gay clubs and is about the intimate moments that happen there and after, no matter the venue. It explores the small moments of physical touch and how they come about. Whether it's a grip around the waist or the face, serpentwithfeet manages to explore all angles. Grip and the black gay club have an interesting relationship: the club is public; the dance floor is obviously a place where people look at and observe each other. At the same time, the black gay club is a safe communal space, it's "for us" and in that sense very private, very intimate. These clubs offered him a different atmosphere, a different comfort and a different sense of welcome that encouraged him in a new way. From start to finish, Grip sonically relives the highs and lows of not only a club night, but also a romance. "Damn Gloves (ft. Ty Dolla $ign and Yanga YaYa)" captures the adrenaline rush of a nighttime climax with a thumping bass embedded in a dance production that mimics the speed of a heartbeat as intimacy boils up between two lovers. "Spades" uses a sweet, guitar-driven melody to create a tender moment, as a slow dance would. "Lucky Me" is sweet and honest, without anything to distract from the actual moment. His voice, a glistening guitar melody and enchanting synths serve as the driving force to foster a new romance. It's a work that emphasises the moments closest to the heart. Over the course of his seven-year career, he has proven his versatility through R&B music that is both sombre, spiritual and joyful. serpentwithfeet continues to push the boundaries of his art.

Why you'll love it...
By 2007, Aesop Rock was a decade into a career that had firmly established him as one of rap’s unreplicable auteurs, an artist who could be bitten only insofar as he could be understood. And still, when he sat down to write hisfifth full-length album, None Shall Pass, relics of his earliest work kept popping back up: the sorrow and salvation that can each be found in rigid structures, the horror of the ordinary, the tyranny of routine. Over a series of beats constructed in near-total by himself and Blockhead (El-P furnishes one track and co-produces another; Aes’ friend Rob Sonic handles the digital-gothic “Dark Heart News”), None Shall Pass argues for Aes as the chief correspondent of an American decline so smooth that it often felt comfortable.

Lifting hip-hop up to a psychedelic realm, Rejjie Snow raps in technicolor, painting in broad strokes with hypnotic hooks, artfully crafted bars, and otherworldly production. Igniting his career, he supported Madonna on tour and broke all the rules with his 2017 project, The Moon & You. A year later, his full-length debut, Dear Annie, yielded genre-disruptive fan favorites such as "Egyptian Luvr," "23," "The Rain," and more. Along the way, he also collaborated with everyone from Clairo to Kaytranada. After receiving acclaim from tastemaking publications worldwide, the Ireland-born artist opens up this world on his second full-length offering, Baw Baw Black Sheep, boasting the singles "Cookie Chips" [feat. MF Doom & Cam O'bi] and "Mirrors" [feat. Snoh Aalegra & Cam'Obi].

A download code is included.

„Special thanks to my family, friends, and all those who’ve inspired me to keep making music. These compositions are a reflection of my musical journey, reminding me there’s always more room to grow.“ - Like (Pac Div)
Like is back on the solo tip with a 16-track instrumental album that uses his first name as the title - Gabriel. Spending his career producing for some of the best artists (Kendrick Lamar, Joey Bada$$, Anderson Paak, Mac Miller, Nick Grant, Curren$y ...) coming out of the hip hop genre, it is probably on this piece that we get to know LIKE's genius touch. A touch that we've, unknowingly, admired for so long. Fresh drum patterns with a fusion of diverse sonic influences on every single track, making the record a classic!

LA-based Japanese DJ/beatmaker Kapsoul, boasting over 20 years of career, announces the release of his first album "ascent"!

Known in Japan for his collaboration with Japanese rapper Senninso ("GaryPayton"), Kapsoul has garnered a reputation among hardcore hip-hop fans, and many have been eagerly anticipating this debut release. The album features a diverse lineup of artists, including NY rapper AA Rashid, a regular contributor to Westside Gunn's projects, LA underground favorite BLU, Declaime (Dudley Perkins) and Georgia Anne Muldrow, known for their releases on Stones Throw, and Kapsoul's own group Black HairImperial, among others. Additionally, instrumental tracks featuring jazz musicians with close ties to Kapsoul are also included, resulting in a project with musicality that transcends the boundaries of hip-hop.

Paper Route Frank is the first posthumous studio album from legendary Memphis, TN figurehead, rapper and mogul, Young Dolph. Gone from us way too soon, the album serves as a testament to the larger than life person and leader that Dolph was, illustrated in tracks such as “Hall of Fame,” “Get Away,” & “Love For The Streets.” At 13 tracks, the album features appearances from PRE labelmates Key Glock, Big Moochie Grape & Snupe Bandz, and taps heavyweight guests in 2 Chainz & longtime collaborator Gucci Mane, who in many ways helped provide the blueprint for Dolph’s own illustrious career. A truly independent foundation in the rap game and unquestionably one of one individual, we may never see another artist like Young Dolph. Long Live Dolph Forever.

Nnamdi has never been able to stay in one place. The Chicago multi-instrumentalist and songwriter set a blistering pace in 2020 with his critically acclaimed genre-fusing LP Brat, a punk EP Black Plight, and Krazy Karl, a full-length tribute to Looney Tunes composer Carl Stalling. Add in his role as co-owner of label Sooper Records, as well as recent tours with Wilco, Sleater-Kinney, and black midi, and it's an overwhelming schedule. However, his latest album, Please Have A Seat, is the result of a much needed pause. "I realized I never take time to just sit and take in where I'm at," says Nnamdi. "It's just nice to not be on `Go, Go, Go!' mode, and reevaluate where I wanted to go musically." This period of reflection allowed him to take stock of his life and his relationships. "I wanted to be present," he says. "Each song came from a moment of clarity." Please Have A Seat serves as an invitation to listen. It's a request to sit down, be present, and take in a moment. With this quiet introspection, Nnamdi found inspiration in silence and nuance. While making the record, he decided to stretch the limits of his pop songwriting: every track had to be hummable. Though he's written earworms throughout his career from playing in bands in Chicago's DIY community or releasing goofy raps as Nnamdi's Sooper Dooper Secret Side Project, here, his shapeshifting hooks are undeniable. Each of the album's fourteen songs, which Nnamdi wrote, produced, and performed entirely himself, are relentlessly replayable, careening into unexpected and disorienting places. With Nnamdi's singular vision, Please Have A Seat is yet another leap from Chicago's hardest working musician. By taking a minute to sit down and catch his breath, he reemerged with the most ambitious, accessible, and nuanced work of his career.

Nnamdi has never been able to stay in one place. The Chicago multi-instrumentalist and songwriter set a blistering pace in 2020 with his critically acclaimed genre-fusing LP Brat, a punk EP Black Plight, and Krazy Karl, a full-length tribute to Looney Tunes composer Carl Stalling. Add in his role as co-owner of label Sooper Records, as well as recent tours with Wilco, Sleater-Kinney, and black midi, and it's an overwhelming schedule. However, his latest album, Please Have A Seat, is the result of a much needed pause. "I realized I never take time to just sit and take in where I'm at," says Nnamdi. "It's just nice to not be on `Go, Go, Go!' mode, and reevaluate where I wanted to go musically." This period of reflection allowed him to take stock of his life and his relationships. "I wanted to be present," he says. "Each song came from a moment of clarity." Please Have A Seat serves as an invitation to listen. It's a request to sit down, be present, and take in a moment. With this quiet introspection, Nnamdi found inspiration in silence and nuance. While making the record, he decided to stretch the limits of his pop songwriting: every track had to be hummable. Though he's written earworms throughout his career from playing in bands in Chicago's DIY community or releasing goofy raps as Nnamdi's Sooper Dooper Secret Side Project, here, his shapeshifting hooks are undeniable. Each of the album's fourteen songs, which Nnamdi wrote, produced, and performed entirely himself, are relentlessly replayable, careening into unexpected and disorienting places. With Nnamdi's singular vision, Please Have A Seat is yet another leap from Chicago's hardest working musician. By taking a minute to sit down and catch his breath, he reemerged with the most ambitious, accessible, and nuanced work of his career.

They Could Never Make ME Hate YOU is the sixth studio album from Miami, FL rapper and underground rap luminary, Pouya, and first full length studio offering since 2023s Gator. The 9 track album clocks in at a blistering pace of 25 minutes long, and includes the previously released singles, “blame GAME,” “forget About Everything” & “UO OH (feat. Rick Ross).” The album marks a defining moment in Pouya's career, revealing an artist at his most raw and unfiltered. It serves as a bold declaration of resilience and defiance, where Pouya peels back the layers of his psyche to confront the pain, betrayal, and perseverance that have shaped him. The project is a sonic exploration of the highs and lows of life, intertwined with Pouya's relentless pursuit of truth, even when it hurts. 1xLP, pressed on Swamp Thing colored vinyl, and includes a double-sided 12x12 insert.

Black MOON’s 1993 debut album Enta Da Stage was a gamechanger to those it reached. The pulse of the underground and DIY spirit flowed through the release as members Buckshot, 5ft and DJ Evil Dee dug deep into the record that would become an east coast hip-hop classic. Buckshot, front and center, shone with his foot on the gas, and no intention to sweeten the hard-hitting lyrical flow. 5ft carved out his own on “Ack Like You Want It” and “Son get Wrec”. DJ Evil Dee threw down an early career production masterclass on the jazzy “Who Got Da Props?” with Mr. Walt - the first of many production projects for Da Beatminerz. P-vine is excited to be reissuing the record for the first time as a double picture disc with two bonus tracks off the Buck Em Down 12” to complete this sixteen track deluxe record.

After The Kaze (Project Pat's first group) released Kamakazie Timez Up in 1998, the Memphis rap legend and Three 6 Mafia affiliate launched his solo career by dropping his major label debut album Ghetty Green in 1999 on Hypnotize Minds/Loud Records. Produced by DJ Paul and Juicy J, Project Pat raps in his signature triplet flow over southern 808-backed beats sprinkled with soulful samples alongside Three 6 Mafia members with appearances by Cash Money's Big Tymers and Hot Boyz, Noreaga, Krayzie Bone, and Crucial Conflict. Previously only released on CD and cassette, Get On Down in partnership with Sony Music's Certified is proud to present for the first time on vinyl a limited edition pressing of Ghetty Green. Pressed on Aqua Blue and Mint Green double-colored vinyl in a gatefold jacket and OBI.

Black MOON’s 1993 debut album Enta Da Stage was a gamechanger to those it reached. The pulse of the underground and DIY spirit flowed through the release as members Buckshot, 5ft and DJ Evil Dee dug deep into the record that would become an east coast hip-hop classic. Buckshot, front and center, shone with his foot on the gas, and no intention to sweeten the hard-hitting lyrical flow. 5ft carved out his own on “Ack Like You Want It” and “Son get Wrec”. DJ Evil Dee threw down an early career production masterclass on the jazzy “Who Got Da Props?” with Mr. Walt - the first of many production projects for Da Beatminerz. P-vine is excited to be reissuing the record for the first time as a limited edition cassette tape with two bonus tracks off the Buck Em Down 12” to complete this sixteen track deluxe record.

Arguably poised as Kool Keith's most sophisticated release to date, Saks 5th Ave serves as both a stepping stone forward in the artist's prolific career, as well as a much-needed reminder that the world's most innovative emcee has a thorough grasp on far more than your average rapper. Touching on everything from the use of high fashion products to personal experiences including a near fatal car crash which occurred in 2017, the 16 track studio album produced by the versatile beat maker Dean ''Landon Price'' Trotter channels Keith in a smoothly conscious state while laying down effortless bars over modern yet timeess hip hop production. From the artist who brought you Dr. Dooom, Sex Style”, Keith and everything in between, Saks 5th Ave is the latest and greatest haute couture in a world of Gap and Old Navy hip hop.

Quantity: 1500
Release type: RSD Exclusive Release

For Black Friday, Schoolly D Is Available In A Yellow And Black Blended Pressing With A Full Color OBI Strip Get On Down presents a special old school treat for RSD Black Friday - Schoolly D’s 1985 debut first issued on his own imprint (and five years later on Jive) produced by Schoolly D and DJ Code Money. The cover of course features Schoolly’s own hand drawn artwork and the album features two of his career stand out cuts - "Gucci Time" and "P.S.K." Find out why Schoolly, and this release in particular, were a heavy influence on Public Enemy, Ice-T, the Beastie Boys and more. Put on your Filas and kick it old school with Schoolly D - presented for RSD Black Friday in an exclusive yellow & black colored vinyl pressing.

Limited to 300 copies available for Germany, Austria and Switzerland only at HHV.

Killer Mike, known for Run The Jewels, releases with Michael his most personal solo album so far.

Michael is to Killer Mike what Logan is to Wolverine. This album tells the story of Michael Santiago Render, giving us a very personal glimpse into his life, refracted through the black culture of the South. You feel the catharsis of a Sunday morning in church where young Mike first heard a B3 Hammond and gospel singers live. You hear the fast-paced shit-talking that goes on at a backyard BBQ in Adamsville on a hot Friday night. You feel the rattle of an 808 while eating a plate of lemon pepper wings on a Wednesday afternoon at Blue Flame. We've known Killer Mike for his long career as a thought-provoking rapper, but on Michael he tells his story for the first time.

Limited edition of 200 copies! TEXTA have not only written Austrian HipHop history, they ARE Austrian HipHop history.

After a small teaser 2020 with the song and video "Rundherum" including unreleased Huckey part, the three sat down in the studio and polished the new album "Mehr Oder Weniger". 13 tracks that represent everything that makes TEXTA unique: sophisticated beats, cuts and scratches by DJ Dan and the two MC's Laima & Flip, who jump on the instrumentals with fresh energy. Philosophical as ever, perhaps more personal than ever, with the necessary wink towards their long career, but the conviction that this changed rap game still needs the three old masters.

So now finally live on tour again, in Run DMC style two MCs and a DJ, HipHop to the fullest with all the hits and the new material, more is not possible, less certainly not.

Mr Muthaf*ckin’ eXquire - the self-titled debut album out via eXquire's own label, Chocolate Rabbit - is long overdue, arriving over a decade in to the rapper's career and following several strong mixtape and EP releases. The album marks the start of a new phase for eXquire which finds him retaining his trademark potty-mouthed raps whilst introducing a more reflective, thoughtful outlook - Ptichfork says of the album, ""the Brooklyn rapper is back on his own label, back on his own terms, and just as defiant and provocative as ever". The first in a series of new releases, Mr Muthaf*ckin’ eXquire is a wild ride of impressive, defiant, funny and sometimes introspective lyrics, with raw, gritty beats - the album features Wiki, KAST and Iceberg Black, with production from some of eXquire's long time collaborators, CONSTROBUZ, Parallel Thought & Iceberg Black, amongst others.

After 15 years in the game, Termanology is still going strong. His latest release will be his 35th project to date, and it is titled “Bad Decisions”. The album is an ode to his past life and experiences before making a full time career in rap. Boasting 14 tracks filled with powerful production from some of Rap’s greatest producers (Erick Sermon, Statik Selektah, Dame Grease, The Beatnuts & more), any fan of real hip hop would enjoy this piece of work. Veteran MC’s Raekwon and Smif-N-Wessun bring their signature flavor to the project while some of Rap’s hottest new lyricists (Conway, Benny, ANoyd, Millyz & Crimeapple) come through and show why they have recently been given much praise. Term even tries his hand at production on the latter half of the album, producing three songs.

Hip-hop legend Rakim is breaking new ground with his upcoming studio album, G.O.D.'S Network (reb7rth), by fl exing his skills both on the mic and behind the boards. Widely lauded as the best lyricist of all time, The God MC himself is blessing the culture with the next step in his historic career. “I feel like the battery in my back has been reenergized,” Rakim said about his new album, which arrives nearly four decades after the release of his classic debut with Eric B., Paid In Full. Since then, he’s continued to shape the landscape and culture of hip-hop as we know it, inspiring rising artists with his hype live shows and incredible studio albums. And while he’s produced some of his previous work—notably “Don’t Sweat the Technique,” “Juice (Know The Ledge),” and “Paid In Full”—this feels like new territory for the 18th Letter, whose production and scratching talents are nothing short of remarkable. G.O.D.'S Network (reb7rth) is proof that Rakim is truly one of the most special artists we’ve known not just in hip-hop, but all of music. You can tell he feels that level of praise when speaking about the genesis of the album. “Having the ability to showcase my talents behind the boards coupled with the elite lyricism the world already knows and gives me in fi nite praise for alongside some of the best talents to ever do it is truly a blessing and for that I am humbled,” he said. Rakim is more than an of fi cial triple-threat as an artist, because he’s also showing off skills as a curator. On this album’s seven tracks, he enlists a who’s-who of top hip-hop talent, including the dearly departed Nipsey Hussle, Fred the Godson, DMX, and Prodigy (of Mobb Deep). Rakim also linked with many of his contemporaries, such as Snoop Dogg, Method Man, Kxng Crooked, B.G., and Kool G. Rap, among others. The album’s fi rst single, “Be Ill,” is the perfect introduction, as it pairs Rakim’s raw rhymes and head-nodding production with slick guest features from Kurupt and Masta Killa. Elsewhere, Rakim slows it down for the soulful “Love Is The Message,” which features Nipsey Hussle, Planet Asia, Louis King, Snoop Dogg, Sally Green, Kobe Honeycutt, and the LA Grand Choir. And then there’s the chest-thumping “International,” a straight-up slapper with hard-hitting rhymes from Kool G. Rap, Tristate, and Joell Ortiz. RRC-066.pdf For fans of hip-hop, and especially of Rakim’s storied discography, there is so much to love on this record. You can hear his hunger as an emcee and producer on every track, as well as his desire to collaborate with so many respected artists. Despite having decades in the game and many classics to his name, it feels like Rakim is just getting started. While the world awaits the July 26th release date, fans can catch Rakim performing live throughout the US from now until the end of year in support of G.O.D.S Network (reb7rth). In addition to debuting new material, he’ll be performing all the classics from his beloved catalog.

In March 2020, right as the whole world was entering into a transitional phase, Evidence released a single titled "Unlearning". Now, a year later, Evidence launches the campaign for his upcoming album, Unlearning Vol. 1, picking up where the single of the same name left off, and going beyond. Throughout his career, Evidence has always been adept at both staying true to his roots and evolving as he grows and learns from life experiences, including recognizing when the time comes to unlearn. During the campaign for his last album, Weather or Not (2018), he expressed a desire to close the chapter on the weather-related theme that had been a staple of his solo career to that point. Unlearning Vol. 1 not only sees that vision come to life, but shines brilliantly in the process. Unlearning Vol. 1 pairs Evidence's own production with works from The Alchemist, Nottz, Sebb Bash, Animoss, Mr. Green, V Don, Daringer and Eardrum (QThree). This highlights perhaps an undervalued skill of Ev's - his ability to collaborate with a multitude of producers on a project, while still creating an album with a cohesion and consistency rarely found in such extensive collaboration. While the album's musical soundscape sets the scene, it's Ev's gift for relatable yet inventively clever writing that really paints the picture, continually pulling the listener in. That said, a small but powerful cast of guest appearances also decorate the landscape, courtesy of stellar performances from Boldy James, Conway The Machine, Fly Anakin, Navy Blue, and Murkage Dave. Unlearning Vol. 1 embodies the sound and feeling of pure artistic expression, capturing a moment in time where marketability, album sales & streaming potential, and the desire to please anyone other than the artist themselves, are all just an afterthought. As one could expect, such freedoms allowed Evidence to tap into something special that sounds engaging and unique, and also remains true to his foundation. In essence, Unlearning Vol. 1 finds Evidence at yet another creative peak, creating a listening experience poised to catch the attention of new listeners while strengthening his core fanbase.

In March 2020, right as the whole world was entering into a transitional phase, Evidence released a single titled "Unlearning". Now, a year later, Evidence launches the campaign for his upcoming album, Unlearning Vol. 1, picking up where the single of the same name left off, and going beyond. Throughout his career, Evidence has always been adept at both staying true to his roots and evolving as he grows and learns from life experiences, including recognizing when the time comes to unlearn. During the campaign for his last album, Weather or Not (2018), he expressed a desire to close the chapter on the weather-related theme that had been a staple of his solo career to that point. Unlearning Vol. 1 not only sees that vision come to life, but shines brilliantly in the process. Unlearning Vol. 1 pairs Evidence's own production with works from The Alchemist, Nottz, Sebb Bash, Animoss, Mr. Green, V Don, Daringer and Eardrum (QThree). This highlights perhaps an undervalued skill of Ev's - his ability to collaborate with a multitude of producers on a project, while still creating an album with a cohesion and consistency rarely found in such extensive collaboration. While the album's musical soundscape sets the scene, it's Ev's gift for relatable yet inventively clever writing that really paints the picture, continually pulling the listener in. That said, a small but powerful cast of guest appearances also decorate the landscape, courtesy of stellar performances from Boldy James, Conway The Machine, Fly Anakin, Navy Blue, and Murkage Dave. Unlearning Vol. 1 embodies the sound and feeling of pure artistic expression, capturing a moment in time where marketability, album sales & streaming potential, and the desire to please anyone other than the artist themselves, are all just an afterthought. As one could expect, such freedoms allowed Evidence to tap into something special that sounds engaging and unique, and also remains true to his foundation. In essence, Unlearning Vol. 1 finds Evidence at yet another creative peak, creating a listening experience poised to catch the attention of new listeners while strengthening his core fanbase.

Growing up in his hometown of Atlanta, artist/producer Sol Messiah has always been inundated with the rich and energizing spirit of Hip Hop culture. Breakdancing from a young age eventually led him joining the legendary Rock Steady Crew out of New York City and learning and mastering the skill of DJing. From there, he began taking an interest in production too, which ultimately led him to working alongside legendary Atlanta producer, Dallas Austin. While Sol Messiah's time with Austin created a deep catalog filled with timeless tracks for TLC, Madonna, Boyz II Men and more, he eventually chose to pursue his own path independently and spent years building a stunning catalog of his own, producing popular tracks for Chamillionaire, David Banner, Nappy Roots, Dead Prez and more. Soon, Sol Messiah would embark on a fruitful musical partnership with a fierce lyricist named Sa-Roc. Together, Sa-Roc and Messiah have released over a dozen projects thus far, including Sa-Roc's groundbreaking 2020 debut on Rhymesayers Entertainment, The Sharecropper's Daughter. As a duo, Sa-Roc and Sol Messiah have amassed a global reach, touring internationally and rocking crowds across continents. They have performed at the legendary Jazz Cafe in London, performed live for BBC, and have shared the stage with luminaries such as Common, The Roots and Jay Electronica. On GOD Cmplx, Sol Messiah connects with some of the finest MCs in the game to create an impressive collection of Hip Hop music that's both innovative and inspiring. Featuring guest performances from Kxng Crooked, Sa-Roc, Evidence, Locksmith, Slug (Atmosphere), Murs, Aesop Rock, Baba Zumbi (Zion I), Che Noir, Lyric Jones and more, GOD Cmplx is a powerful and engaging project serving as a testament to Sol Messiah's skills both as a producer as well a visionary.

Seasoned MC and producer, Apathy, delivers his 9th full length album as an integral piece of his impressive 25+ year career. Back in 2014, he blessed hip hop heads with "Connecticut Casual", one of his most personal and fan-favorite outings to date. Once again heavily inspired by his hometown surroundings and shore-life encounters, Ap brings to fruition the next chapter in the soundtrack to the New England way of life with this new-age sequel to the original "CT Casual". The majority of the project is painstakingly produced by newcomer beatsmith, Playa Haze, with additional production from Apathy himself, along with contributions from Alcapella, plus Little Vic on both the boards and the mic. Ap's longtime partner-in-rhyme, Celph Titled, appears as one of the few guest features blessing the LP. Sail along this ride through murky waters, mysterious folklore, brash talk, and experience the East Coast lifestyle through the eyes of a Demigod.

Following in the footsteps of his famed brother Madlib, Oh No has become one of the most celebrated independent hip-hop artists of the 21st century. His storied career has included not only rap success but an impressive resume behind the boards, with production credits for Mos Def, Freddie Gibbs, De La Soul, Action Bronson, Talib Kweli, Ab-Soul, and more. An innovator in the art of sampling with a history of exploring diverse source material, Oh No is now back with Good Vibes / Bad Vibes, a new instrumental album deconstructing the work of iconic vibraphonist Roy Ayers. A split collection with two thematically distinct halves, the album is entirely constructed from the early, jazz-centric realm of the Ayers archive. Good Vibes is "light and vibrant, with colorful layers radiating under the sun shine,” Oh No explains, while Bad Vibes contains “dark murky atmospheric tones for the angry moments, those times when it’s necessary to step in the mud.”

Seasoned MC and producer, Apathy, delivers his 9th full length album as an integral piece of his impressive 25+ year career. Back in 2014, he blessed hip hop heads with "Connecticut Casual", one of his most personal and fan-favorite outings to date. Once again heavily inspired by his hometown surroundings and shore-life encounters, Ap brings to fruition the next chapter in the soundtrack to the New England way of life with this new-age sequel to the original "CT Casual". The majority of the project is painstakingly produced by newcomer beatsmith, Playa Haze, with additional production from Apathy himself, along with contributions from Alcapella, plus Little Vic on both the boards and the mic. Ap's longtime partner-in-rhyme, Celph Titled, appears as one of the few guest features blessing the LP. Sail along this ride through murky waters, mysterious folklore, brash talk, and experience the East Coast lifestyle through the eyes of a Demigod.

Dope Folks are proud to announce their 99th release!!! The Last Emperor is a Philly born MC who started to make waves in the Lyrical Underground movement of the late 90's early 2000's. Moving to New York in the early 2000's, he began performing at open mic nights and became a protege of Dr. Dre. After being featured on KRS-One's "C.I.A" with Zach De La Rocha, The Last Emperor was signed to Rawkus Records. In the span of 6 months, a handful of singles were released and the label stopped putting out new music. Being without a label, the Last Emperor formed Red Planet Music to release his debut "Music, Magic, and Myth." We are excited to release these tracks from the Last Emperor's vaults! 8 tracks in all from the The Last Emperor's underground career. Limited to 350 copies, (100 colored copies, 250 standard black) Get your copy now!

Following in the footsteps of his famed brother Madlib, Oh No has become one of the most celebrated independent hip-hop artists of the 21st century. His storied career has included not only rap success but an impressive resume behind the boards, with production credits for Mos Def, Freddie Gibbs, De La Soul, Action Bronson, Talib Kweli, Ab-Soul, and more. An innovator in the art of sampling with a history of exploring diverse source material, Oh No is now back with Good Vibes / Bad Vibes, a new instrumental album deconstructing the work of iconic vibraphonist Roy Ayers. A split collection with two thematically distinct halves, the album is entirely constructed from the early, jazz-centric realm of the Ayers archive. Good Vibes is "light and vibrant, with colorful layers radiating under the sun shine,” Oh No explains, while Bad Vibes contains “dark murky atmospheric tones for the angry moments, those times when it’s necessary to step in the mud.”

Brainorchestra has found plenty of DIY success through Bandcamp with over a dozen albums released selling well to a fervent fanbase. All physical iterations are either sold out or nearly sold out.
-Recent praise clocked at Pitchfork Media, Complex, and Bandcamp Daily.

New Jersey-based emcee/producer Brainorchestra returns with his latest effort, It Means A Lot. The eight track EP takes a look into his new perspective on life following the success of his previous release, Big Brain, which has made a major impact on his career. Pieced together by unapologetic honesty, new experiences and growth, Brainorchestra is joined by a supporting cast that includes both Butch Dawson and Kenn Starr, we are witnessing the start of practice paying off. The record is produced, recorded, mixed and mastered by the fast-rising artist, and comes equipped with the b-side instrumentals. It Means A Lot is set to be released through his recent partnership with Fat Beats.

Tone Spliff and Melly-Mel met in 2020, the year of the Covid-19 pandemic. Tone had just put out a #FreshStyleChallenge to eMCees on his social media platforms and was impressed with Mel's submission. He decided to collaborate with him on a project, offering Mel the option to cut a joint EP or a full album. Ecstatically, Melly-Mel chose the album route & the pair produced New People; an LP born out of a new friendship, formed in a tumultuous time. Throughout both careers, they’ve worked with heavyweight artists such as: Ruste Juxx, A-f-r-o, Sadat X, Wordsworth, El Da Sensei, Termanology, Skyzoo, Sean Price, Ras Kass, Akrobatik, Thirstin' Howl 3rd, Royce 5'9, Immortal Technique, R.A. The Rugged Man, Inspectah Deck, King Magnetic, Conway The Machine, Planet Asia, Edo G, Saigon, Apathy, Stu Bangas and countless others.

Starting off their careers as young protege to the legendary hip-hop producer Kutmasta Kurt, Rushden & Diamonds first got their start writing rhymes and making beats while digging in the crates of 1980’s rnb and royal orchestral music. The duo’s early productions would eventually make their way onto R&D’s debut release “2010”, a critically acclaimed double album hip-hopera which featured the likes of MC Paul Barman, Moka Only, Dylan Ross (Rozz Dyliams) voicing as an alias and more.

Now, while channeling inspirations from their favorite retro music, video games, and action movie culture, Rushden & Diamonds' bring you their highly anticipated follow up to “2010” appropriately titled "2020". The new 10 track studio album features the likes of Kool Keith, Kutmasta Kurt, Moka Only, Dylan Ross (Rozz Dyliams), Mega Ran, Naoto Tanaka, Castro Satoshi and more.

Known for impressive lyricism and streetwise wordplay set to dusty soul and jazz loops, Atlanta native Tha God Fahim has defied expectations for hip-hop from his city, and his steady stream of output continues to draw attention. Just a few years into his career, the talented emcee/producer has already released more than 100 projects, establishing himself as one of the most prolific artists in rap today. Despite his rapidly growing audience, Tha God Fahim remains an enigma, releasing little background information and maintaining an air of mystery about himself, similar to frequent collaborator Mach-Hommy. Now, Nature Sounds is proud to announce "Lost Kingz", a brand new album from Tha God Fahim. Available worldwide on CD, vinyl, and digital outlets, "Lost Kingz" features appearances from Mach-Hommy and Vinnie Paz, plus production by DJ Muggs, The Architect, C-Lance, and Fahim himself.

New pressing on blue vinyl, limited to 500 copies.

In March 2020, right as the whole world was entering into a transitional phase, Evidence released a single titled "Unlearning". Now, a year later, Evidence launches the campaign for his upcoming album, Unlearning Vol. 1, picking up where the single of the same name left off, and going beyond. Throughout his career, Evidence has always been adept at both staying true to his roots and evolving as he grows and learns from life experiences, including recognizing when the time comes to unlearn. During the campaign for his last album, Weather or Not (2018), he expressed a desire to close the chapter on the weather-related theme that had been a staple of his solo career to that point. Unlearning Vol. 1 not only sees that vision come to life, but shines brilliantly in the process. Unlearning Vol. 1 pairs Evidence's own production with works from The Alchemist, Nottz, Sebb Bash, Animoss, Mr. Green, V Don, Daringer and Eardrum (QThree). This highlights perhaps an undervalued skill of Ev's - his ability to collaborate with a multitude of producers on a project, while still creating an album with a cohesion and consistency rarely found in such extensive collaboration. While the album's musical soundscape sets the scene, it's Ev's gift for relatable yet inventively clever writing that really paints the picture, continually pulling the listener in. That said, a small but powerful cast of guest appearances also decorate the landscape, courtesy of stellar performances from Boldy James, Conway The Machine, Fly Anakin, Navy Blue, and Murkage Dave. Unlearning Vol. 1 embodies the sound and feeling of pure artistic expression, capturing a moment in time where marketability, album sales & streaming potential, and the desire to please anyone other than the artist themselves, are all just an afterthought. As one could expect, such freedoms allowed Evidence to tap into something special that sounds engaging and unique, and also remains true to his foundation. In essence, Unlearning Vol. 1 finds Evidence at yet another creative peak, creating a listening experience poised to catch the attention of new listeners while strengthening his core fanbase.

A quarter century since their 1998 debut, No Fear of Time finally reunites one of the greatest hip-hop duos of all-time, Black Star. Group members yasiin bey and Talib Kweli first joined forces to deliver their iconic breakout, Mos Def and Talib Kweli are Black Star, which quickly became one of hip-hop's most revered works and launched both already-rising stars into the stratosphere. Although each has since enjoyed success and acclaim in their individual careers, they've never realigned for a sophomore follow-up to that release until now.Produced entirely by renowned beatsmith Madlib, No Fear of Time has a future vibe with vintage soul. The 9-track album was recorded guerrilla-style in hotels and dressing rooms around the globe, and initially saw a non-traditional release, being made available exclusively on a subscription-based podcast platform. Now, the album is officially available on physical formats for fans worldwide to own and appreciate the triumphant return of Black Star.

A quarter century since their 1998 debut, No Fear of Time finally reunites one of the greatest hip-hop duos of all-time, Black Star. Group members yasiin bey and Talib Kweli first joined forces to deliver their iconic breakout, Mos Def and Talib Kweli are Black Star, which quickly became one of hip-hop's most revered works and launched both already-rising stars into the stratosphere. Although each has since enjoyed success and acclaim in their individual careers, they've never realigned for a sophomore follow-up to that release until now.Produced entirely by renowned beatsmith Madlib, No Fear of Time has a future vibe with vintage soul. The 9-track album was recorded guerrilla-style in hotels and dressing rooms around the globe, and initially saw a non-traditional release, being made available exclusively on a subscription-based podcast platform. Now, the album is officially available on physical formats for fans worldwide to own and appreciate the triumphant return of Black Star. Yasiin Bey fka Mos Def

"L.A. rapper Blu burst onto the scene in the late 00s with the widely acclaimed Exile collaboration Below The Heavens, igniting a West Coast hip-hop renaissance in the process. With his cool Cali demeanor and undeniable lyrical talent, Blu drew praise from fans and tastemakers alike, launching a remarkable career that continues thriving to this day. His first ever double album, the 2014 masterpiece Good To Be Home is an essential part of this story. An unapologetic celebration of Los Angeles music and culture, the album takes listeners on a vivid journey through Blu’s storied stomping grounds. With sweeping strings and hypnotic bass lines supplied by producer Bombay, Good To Be Home features a host of West Coast hip-hop luminaries, including Evidence, Fashawn, Alchemist, Casey Veggies, MED, Planet Asia, Oh No, Pac Div, Strong Arm Steady, Thurz, Visionaries, and more. A cohesive collection with 20 tracks and no filler, this classic release is now available again on vinyl after years out of print."

Before the acclaimed albums "Legends Never Die" and "All My Heroes Are Dead" brought his career to new heights, R.A. The Rugged Man spent years as an underrated rap enigma, with a slew of storied records to his name that had never received a proper release. With the 2009 compilation "Legendary Classics Vol. 1, R.A. finally unleashed many of the lost gems that earned him a reputation as one of hip-hop's most feared lyricists, showcasing his undeniable history. An essential collection from a true hip-hop original, the album features appearances by The Notorious B.I.G., Havoc of Mobb Deep, Jedi Mind Tricks, Kool G Rap, J-Live, Hell Razah, Tragedy Khadafi, Akinyele, and Sadat X, along with track-by-track commentary from the Rugged Man himself. This "Legendary Classics Vol. 1" reissue also includes the new bonus track “The Greatest” featuring famed Italian singer Marcella Puppini, which has never before been available on vinyl.