Search "career crooks" 311 Items

Yung Bleu, also known as, Bleu Vandross, is a Hip-Hop/R&B artist from Mobile, Alabama. After scoring several major hits and racking up over 1 Billion streams and YouTube views early in his career with a series of smash love anthems, the multi-talented artist scored his first Billboard Hot 100 hit with “You’re Mines Still,” a joint single featuring Drake, which debuted at #52. It’s parent EP, Love Scars: The Five Stages of Emotions, likewise hit the Billboard 200 Chart. Following the success, Yung Bleu delivers his debut studio album, Moon Boy. Featuring hit songs such as “Baddest (feat. Chris Brown & 2 Chainz),” “You’re Mines Still (feat. Drake),” Beautiful Lies (feat. Kehlani),” & “Way More Close (Stuck In A Box) (feat. Big Sean),” the album also sees appearances from heavyweight artists such as H.E.R, John Legend, Kehlani, Kodak Black, Davido, Moneybagg Yo, Jeezy, Gunna & A Boogie Wit Da Hoodie. Pressed on Black vinyl with White Splatter.

This album is the outcome of an exclusive collaboration between the two MCs and performers Youthstar & Miscellaneous (Chill Bump) in a unique opus.New video/single 'Dropping Like Flies' was produced by Ennemi and featuring PAV4N (Foreign Beggars) is an energetic hip-hop banger where the MCs' shows their respective skills on a super efficient and catchy production between hip-hop and neo dubstep.Taking advantage of unexpected free time, they turned 2020 into the perfect year to develop the project and make it happen.It's hard to overlook the eclecticism, the richness of the subjects covered, the completely crazy flows, and the head banging loops of this album whose creation process was the fastest of their respective careers.

HHV exclusive vinyl edition on red vinyl, limited to 100 copies.

When Your Old Droog first entered the hip-hop scene a decade ago, he was cloaked in anonymity. The Ukraine-born, Brooklyn bred rap phenomenon was known solely for his sharp, punchy lyrics wrapped in a gruff delivery. He finally came into the light with his eponymous debut release, the catalyst for what has become a prolific career. Since then, Droog has crystallized his place as the erudite rapper who can tackle any beat with precision; a product of the underground, yet designed for the mainstream. With his new project Movie, YOD is in a new era, where his days of being the dark horse in rap are over. He has countless co-signs from some of the greatest to ever touch a mic, and now he's finally geared to join them. "Movie is everything that's dope about me," Droog explains. "Every song, every mood. This is my story." A layered masterpiece, the album features appearances by Method Man, Yasiin Bey, and Denzel Curry, plus production by industry stalwarts like Just Blaze, Harry Fraud, Conductor Williams, and the legendary Madlib.

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.

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.

King of Memphis is the debut studio album from Young Dolph. The self-proclaimed “King of Memphis” and Paper Route Empire founder defined the independent hustle and set the industry and streets ablaze throughout his career. The album features the massive single, “Get Paid,” and standout hits such as “Fuck It,” & “Royalty.” Free of any features, King of Memphis puts the full spotlight on Dolph and features production from heavyweight producers such as Mike Will Made It, Tm88, Zaytoven, Nard & B, and Drumma Boy, among others. While his life was ultimately cut short, the influence and impact of Dolph’s legacy will live on forever. Long Live Dolph.

Special limited edition with a vinyl postcard with an exclusive song only on this postcard (playable on a record player!) - 200 copies.

Renowned for their distinctive contributions to the global lofi beat scene, Wun Two and Made in M, two of Germany’s most delicate producers, announce their collaborative album, "Sole Spirito," set to release on June 28th, 2024.

With careers spanning over a decade, both Wun Two and Made in M have left an indelible mark on the genre, pioneering its raw yet chill aesthetic.
Wun Two, known for his signature lofi instrumental hip hop, has recently showcased his versatility through collaborations with acclaimed rappers such as Conway the Machine, Da Flyy Hooligan and Ben Beal and similarly Made in M who has garnered acclaim for his latest lofi house project, Flux LP, showcasing his prowess in creating genre crossing productions.

"Sole Spirito" marks the first full-length collaborative effort between the two producers, who have been long-time friends and mutual admirers of each other's work. The album, comprising 18 tracks, was largely conceived during a songwriting producer camp in southern France in late summer 2023. It was there that they also crossed paths with L.A.-based rapper Yungmorpheus, who features on two of the album's tracks.

With a lot of nostalgic charm of 70s Italo wave, "Sole Spirito" transports listeners to an era of Italian cinema characterized by lush lifestyles, eroticism and vintage nostalgia.

German Lofi Icons Wun Two and Made in M Unveil Collaborative Album "Sole Spirito"

Renowned for their distinctive contributions to the global lofi beat scene, Wun Two and Made in M, two of Germany’s most delicate producers, announce their collaborative album, "Sole Spirito," set to release on June 28th, 2024.

With careers spanning over a decade, both Wun Two and Made in M have left an indelible mark on the genre, pioneering its raw yet chill aesthetic. Wun Two, known for his signature lofi instrumental hip hop, has recently showcased his versatility through collaborations with acclaimed rappers such as Conway the Machine, Da Flyy Hooligan and Ben Beal and similarly Made in M who has garnered acclaim for his latest lofi house project, Flux LP, showcasing his prowess in creating genre crossing productions.

"Sole Spirito" marks the first full-length collaborative effort between the two producers, who have been long-time friends and mutual admirers of each other's work. The album, comprising 18 tracks, was largely conceived during a songwriting producer camp in southern France in late summer 2023. It was there that they also crossed paths with L.A.-based rapper Yungmorpheus, who features on two of the album's tracks.

With a lot of nostalgic charm of 70s Italo wave, "Sole Spirito" transports listeners to an era of Italian cinema characterized by lush lifestyles, eroticism and vintage nostalgia.

Stay ready for the release of "Sole Spirito" on limited vinyl edition and streaming on June 28th, 2024.

Camminami sulla spina dorsale, divorami come raggi di sole, sei balsamo per il mio spirito in quei notti insonni e pieni di ricordi. Non potrò mai non sentire la tua mancanza. Ricordo sempre tutto.

Commemorating the 15th anniversary of Wiz Khalifa's 2008 mixtape, Star Power, Rostrum Records is releasing the mixtape’s first-ever vinyl pressing! The limited-edition package features retro video game inspired artwork and outer space colored vinyl discs, housed in a NES cartridge style die-cut inner sleeve. Also included is a lyrics insert resembling a video game instruction booklet. Originally released on September 17, 2008, Star Power is an essential document from Wiz Khalifa's early career, helping develop his lush sound and establish his reputation as the game's hardest-working and most talented stoner. Hosted by DJ Deez, the tape features multiple guest appearances from Wiz's close associate Chevy Woods, then known as Kev Da Hustla, and production sculpted at the legendary I.D. Labs by Pittsburgh natives like Sledgren, E. Dan, Johnny Juliano, Rocky Fontaine, and Big Jerm, who produced hits for Wiz, Mac Miller, and more during his career. Spanning 23 tracks, Star Power exhibits the melodic mastery and strong songwriting that soon made Wiz Khalifa a superstar, acting as a crucial stepping stone from Pittsburgh prominence to worldwide recognition.

Wiz Khalifa, Big K.R.I.T., Smoke DZA and Girl Talk have released their collaborative LP Full Court Press. The product of over a decade-long friendship among the artists, the new album is a timeless and upbeat rap record.

On the project’s lead single, March’s “Put You On,” the group drops bars about the come-up of their respective careers. Leading up to the release, they shared more songs and accompanying music videos, including a visual for the party track “Ain’t No Fun” directed by kee and Bawwse.

“Collaborating with Girl Talk, Big K.R.I.T., and Smoke DZA on this album has been a long time coming,” Khalifa said. “Putting it together and throwing the house party for the “Ain’t No Fun” video was the perfect way to wrap the album.”

Spanning ten singles in total, Full Court Press is a nostalgic throwback, featuring undertones of the seventies and eighties alongside the musical stylings of each individual contributor. The album also packs in an additional guest appearance Curren$y.

R.I.P. MF DOOM

For 2003's Vaudeville Villain MF Doom took on yet another pseudonym. Where MF Doom drew from Doctor Doom, Viktor Vaughn drew from the Doctor's government name, Victor von Doom. The influence of superheros and supervillians however goes much deeper than the nom de plume, the sci-fi vibe is present, musically, throughout Vaudeville Villain. Long out of print on vinyl, Get On Down presents this landmark of MF Doom's career as a double gatefold LP for RSD 2022.

High Focus Records regular and member of UK rap super group The Four Owls, Verb T has joined forces with production wizard Pitch 92 for the new album ‘Good Evening’. Pitch, who has spent the past few years as the musical mastermind behind the award winning
Mouse Outfit collective has excelled himself on this release bringing to the table a delectable selection of funk & soul infused bangers serving as the perfect backdrop for Verb T to unleash his smooth brand of thoughtful lyrics and hooks.
Having spent 3 years writing for ‘Good Evening’ Verb T has put forward some of his most personal rhymes to date, delivered with a new found passion that sees the veteran build on a body of work that stretches back to the days of Low Life Records and now sees him as a major part of the ever expanding High Focus Records movement. The album features guest vocals from UK giants Ocean Wisdom, Jehst, DRS, Fliptrix, BVA, King Kashmere of Strange U, Sparkz, Black Josh, Rye Shabby, Confucious MC and Moreone.
Individually, Verb T and Pitch 92 have accomplished a huge amount, however with ‘Good Evening’ both artists have put forward arguably the best work of their careers. Built from scratch with the live show element in mind, this album really feels like a party, Good Evening! Enjoy!

Our 104th release is from Chicago MC Vakill!!!! Vakill was a part of the legendary Chicago rap group Molemen!! This 8 song EP contains rare tracks encompassing Vakill's career from 1991 - 2001. All songs produced by the legendary Panik of Molemen. 8 tracks in all, limited to 300 copies (50 colored copies, and 250 standard black vinyl). Get your piece of Chicago rap history now!!!

Black Friday Record Store Day 2022 First Release. Color: Black. Limitation: 3500.
Tommy Boy Records, the legendary hip-hop label founded in 1981, launched the careers of so many notable hip hop legends. Tommy Boy’s Baddest Beats features the greatest hits of Naughty by Nature, Digital Underground, Queen Latifah, Coolio, House of Pain, Stetsasonic, K7 and Apache. The package is 140g black vinyl in an old-style tip-on full color jacket, with full color labels, wrap and RSD sticker.

The Silhouettes Project a new platform for up and coming Hip-Hop, Soul and Jazz artists from the UK. It is not a record label or management team, it is a community project. The Silhouettes Project provides an open space - a recording studio and live venue located within the Total Refreshment Centre in Hackney, London - where MCs, singers, musicians and producers can connect and create.The Silhouttes Project was founded by community organisers/artists Asher Korner (aka Kosher) and Jaden Osei-Bonsu (Eerf Evil) in 2019. When they told us about the project and played us some of the music we were instantly hooked and joined the collective as label partner. The art direction is executed by Sergio „SagaUno“ Alferez, an acclaimed designer and illustrator from Medellín, Columbia.Starting in September, we release a new single each Thursday from artists like Kofi Stone, Summers Sons, Enny, KeepVibesNear, Manik MC, Lex Amor, Louis The Hippie, Summer-Pearl, Joe Beard and many more.

Here is the story of the Silhouettes Project as told by its founders Jaden and Asher: „We started The Silhouettes Project in February 2019, to shine a light on the new generation ofunderground Hip-Hop, Jazz, and Soul music in the UK. Community is everything to us, and wewanted to show that with a proper support network, access to professional facilities, and theencouragement of a family of artists, our community could produce something incredible. We felt a joint frustration that the current music scene in the UK only had structures in placeto support talent of a certain genre whilst overlooking a buzzing alternative Hip-Hop culture.We wanted to unify artists who are making ground-breaking music but who are in need of asolid structure to work within - artists who we felt deserved more recognition. This led us tothe name ‘The Silhouettes Project’, as we wanted to shine a light on those artists in theshadows. The journey started by embarking on a collaborative album project which allowed us to bringtogether more than 30 artists on a single tape and to create a network of incredibly talentedartists of the same calibre. The album took more than a year, working almost every day at theRoot 73 studio, a community space in Hackney. We knew from the first few sessions that wewere on to something, and the energy around the project kept it moving. As artists ourselves we understood that the creative process can be challenging and sometimesisolating, especially when there is no clear support network to fall back on. This led us to bringour efforts into the physical realm by organising a series of free live music events for all ofthese artists to come to, showcase their work alongside our house band, and connect witheach other. These events take place at The Total Refreshment Centre in Dalston, anunderground studio complex and warehouse space, which gave the events an intimatecommunity feeling and the people a sense of belonging. There is a desperate need for spaces in which people can come together and develop theircreative potential, especially with the consistent withdrawal of funding from the arts sector inthe UK and with the constant threat of gentrification which has seen the closure of countlesscommunity and grassroots creative organisations. As we grew as a brand and organisation, webegan to fully understand the importance of what we were doing. From the studio sessions tothe events, we saw the impact on people’s outlooks on their own careers, we saw them growin confidence in performing and collaborating and even taking their own initiative to utilise thenetwork provided for them. We heard their feedback, we felt the excitement in theatmospheres at our events and studio sessions, and we saw the community grow every timewe brought it together.“

Animal Records – founded by Chris Stein of Blondie fame – only ever released one album in its brief early-80s history, but what an album that was. Wild Style remains the most seminal soundtrack in hip-hop history, a snapshot of the scene as it evolved from the streets to the recording studio. But it’s not just a vital document, it’s also a damn good listen.

The line-up is a who’s who of those who stood out from hip-hop’s nascent block party days. The Double Trouble pairing of Rodney Cee and KK Rockwell, The Chief Rocker himself, Busy Bee, the mighty line-ups of both The Cold Crush Brothers and The Fantastic Freaks. The music captures the free-form, roaming nature of the film – it’s rough at the edges, it’s occasionally amateurish, but it’s completely, utterly glorious.

The original Animal tracklisting, of which this is a reissue, is full of recurring sounds and motifs, all of them co-produced by Chris Stein and Fab Five Freddy, stepping away from breakbeats to produce a sound that reminds you of them, while being totally unique. The epic drums are courtesy of Lenny ‘Ferrari’ Ferraro, a Vietnam vet and punk drummer whose career spanned stints backing Aretha Franklin and Lou Reed.

Over time, those sounds – the Charlie Chase and Grand Wizard Theodore scratches, the indelible lyrics - have become hip-hop touchstones, endlessly sampled and referenced, the bedrock of so much music to follow. That’s because the soundtrack perfectly encapsulated the essence of the film, the scene and hip-hop’s emergence from The Bronx to the attention of the wider world. Presented in this reissue with the original artwork, it remains the blueprint.

Beat Art Department releases an EP with remixes from the upcoming album of the Vienna DJ and producer Urbs by Retrogott, Brenk Sinatra and Cookin' Soul.
Retrogott aka Kurt Hustle from Cologne, who completely reshaped the track "10.000 Years Behind Me", is one of the most important representatives of
German Independent Hip Hop ever since the mid-2000s. Collectors spend a small fortune for his 2007 debut album “Jetzt Schämst Du Dich!”, which
has become the blueprint of German rap. He has remained popular, even when he changed his name.

It has been eleven long years since Urbs dropped his last album which was called “Toujours Le Meme Film”. Back then, the musician, DJ and producer created the soundtrack to a fictitious Film Noir, which was released on Kruder & Dorfmeister‘s G-Stone Label, but after touring Europe he almost completely retreated from public life. He does not consider his creativity as
being his career, but rather as a part of his life which rarely is subject to concrete planning, and that is why Urbs quite consciously took his time to create his latest –untitled- album.

Urbs: “A lot of people totally appreciated my last album “Toujours Le Meme Film”, and over the years I’ve learned that it really means a lot to some of them. Which was a burden, because, obviously, you do not want to disappoint these people. By now, I think enough water went down Danube river to perhaps surprise some of them with something completely new.
Those who know me know that I’ve always simply produced dope hip hop
tracks.”

This time, as a consequence, this is no all instrumental album but a collection of 12 soulful hip hop tunes that feature some handpicked vocalist
of the international rap, dancehall and soul scenes. On the album right next to EMC’s Wordsworth or R.A. the Rugged Man from New York, you will hear Ward 21 from Kingston, Jamaica, Voice Monet from New Orleans, One Self’s Blu Rum 13 from Washington DC, as well as long time companions like Skero from Vienna or Blabbwona from the group Abstract Art, who now lives in Munich by choice.

There also is a simple answer to the question of why the album has no title:
“This album, so to say, is my competitive exhibition in this field and owing to the endlessly long ripening process it is wonderfully and intensively boiled
down and on point. Therefore, no intros, no interludes, no title, no gimmicks, simply 12 good songs – period."

With two full-length albums already under their belts that garnered them buzz in the underground ("Lasting Impressions" & "The Revisited"), New Jersey originated emcee uMaNg, reunites with Swedish producer B.B.Z. Darney ("The Boom Bappin' Zombie"), to complete their trilogy of albums with their label debut on Ill Adrenaline Records entitled, "The Black Rose Certificate."
Shortly after inking a deal with the label, the next eight months would find uMaNg & B.B.Z. embarking on a musical journey that would result in their most personal & brutally honest record to date. The title "The Black Rose Certificate", while a representation of many a symbolism, reflects the duo's state of mind, the hand they've been dealt as typecasts in society. Since being impossible to produce a "black rose" also stands for purest devotion. A kind of devotion that uMaNg & B.B.Z. put forth in their respected crafts.
Over the course of 14 tracks, the duo sonically stick to their traditional "boom-bap" roots, whilst also bringing sounds that range from "darker" to "aggressive", to even more "melancholic". The production B.B.Z. Darney showcases is heavier, more conceptual than previous releases. uMaNg has been notable throughout his career for being a clever & witty, punchline heavy emcee. While staying true to his stylings on the mic, he gets deeper & more transparent than past albums have suggested. For every braggadocious track, there is another where the Jersey emcee bares his soul through the pen, opening up about past discretions, family HIStory, amongst other topics on the emcee's mind. Also unlike "Lasting Impressions" & "The Revisited", that found the duo being the lone contributors to their works alongside the legendary DJ Grazzhoppa, they now bring along with them close collaborators as well as in-label artists. The album features tracks from the likes of Brick City veteran and close Artifacts affiliate Beneficence, Purpose of the Tragic Allies camp, close friends HexOne & Tek-nition of the critically acclaimed duo Epidemic, and Hashfinger to lend their talents and further enhance the album's disposition.

Ultramagnetic MCs are back. Known for their abstract and futuristic style, Kool Keith and Ced Gee pioneered the New York Hip Hop sound in the 80's alongside contemporaries such as KRS One and LL Cool J, before disbanding in the mid 1990s. Bolstering a long, genre spanning solo career Kool Keith cemented his legacy in the Hip Hop, Punk and Electronic music circles with thematic albums under aliases such as Dr. Octagon, Dr. Dooom and Black Elvis, while Ced Gee stayed mostly behind the scenes providing production work for iconic artists including The Prodigy and Lee ''Scratch'' Perry. Backing the legendary duo is Nashville based oddball band Thetan, who provided the entire instrumentation for the recent Kool Keith collaborative album 'Space Goretex'. Offering up 2 brand new tracks of spaced out funky hip hop, the B-side of this 12'' is emblazoned with an etching of the Ultramagnetic MCs logo, engraved by none other than Dan Emery at Black Matter Mastering.

Certainly one of the core figures in the beat scene of Sofia, Bulgaria, Bojidar Vasilev – Trombobby combines his long-time passion, the trombone, with peculiar beats for a truly contemporary sound. Studied jazz trombone at Conservatorium van Amsterdam, he’s also part of acts like Southwick, Dayo, and Android Ethics. Trombobby has played with and produced for numerous musicians in Bulgaria’s thriving soul, r&b, and instrumental hip hop scenes and also teaches music production at Sound Ninja Music Academy.

Born in New Brunswick, New Jersey, TromBobby’s collaborator on Pause vol 1 – Jermaine Holmes began embarking on his musical career at the age of four as a member of his grandfather’s choir of Mount Calvary Baptist church. Jermaine performs as lead singer for Pete Rock and The Soul Brothers, and appears alongside artists like Nicole Bus, Keyon Harrold and many others on albums and stages around the world. Previously he had become an active member of the group The Vanguard since 2012 with popular R&B/Soul artist D’Angelo.

4 years ago Bojidar Vasilev embarked on a journey that’s both solo and packed with friendships. Indebted to Dilla, Knxwledge, and a whole galaxy of influential beat makers, the the fresh-out-of-Amsterdam-studies musician released his debut album Run.

With more than 100k streams on all major DSPs, the world saw TromBobby solidifying his place in the production scene and another example for the rise of the producers as lead artists. While he was already a household name in the Bulgarian r&b / soul and instrumental scene, it was Run that put TromBobby on the path of self-discovery and growth as a musician.

TromBobby’s new approach is a juxtaposition to the Forest Gump inspiration behind Run (2018) and while running did save Forest before, this new record channels his last 4 years of experience and learnings into a more laid-back and grounded destination.

On his new EP, Pause VOL.1, Bojidar, now 27, expands his attitude to beat music with neo-soul, jazz and r&b elements, going beyond sampling and with focus on live instrumentation and vocals as a production element. All that designed to create complex multi-layered music with vast emotional horizons. The take-everything-from-life-and-don’t-stop-for-a-second energy is now transformed. Still there, but somehow matured due to the realization that you really need to focus on certain things in order to achieve your goals.

It is that focus that translated into TromBobby’s ever-growing desire to play more and more instruments. Something that’s not only evident in the album’s artwork and credits, but when experiencing his music live.

On the new record TromBobby manifests the 4 years of exploration and love for collaboration with friends and same-energy people. That leads him to crossing paths with Jermaine Holmes who is an active member of the group The Vanguard since 2012 with artist D’Angelo. Their 2 collaborative tracks “longing” and “tony’s Lament” don’t only cross borders, but genres and sensations.

A big leap forward to TromBobby is utilizing his singing abilities on “box OF Chocolates” and “sunday”. Being fearless is that Run energy that translates into Pause VOL.1 and what’s going to carry on in VOL.2.

Originally released on New Jersey Drive, Vol. 1 (Original Motion Picture Soundtrack).

The album found a great deal of success, making it to #22 on the Billboard Top 200 and #3 on the Top R&B and Hip Hop Chart, and spawned the certified gold single "Can't You See" which launched the career of popular 90's girl group Total. On June 6, 1995 the soundtrack was certified gold by the Riaa. After having made their recording debut on Biggie's tracks "Juicy" and "One More Chance", The Notorious BIG returned the favor with an intro rap verse to the song. The flip side includes the Keith Murray featured, "Bad Boy Remix".

tobi lou cements a connection to countless listeners through his creativity. The Nigeria-born, Chicago-raised, and Los Angeles-based rapper and producer builds music meant to last with unpredictable flare and inimitable spirit. As the story goes, tobi lou flourished as a football player and baseball player until undergoing a dream-ending injury and jumping from a semi-pro career to the mic. A series of buzzing EPs—tobi lou and the Moon, tobi lou and The Loop, and tobi lou and The Juice—paved the way for his 2019 mixtape, Live on Ice. The latter included “I Was Sad Last Night I’m OK Now,” which racked up 42.9 million Spotify streams. Earning widespread acclaim, Pitchfork hailed 2020’s “Student Loans” as “a refreshing dose of joy.” Meanwhile, Lyrical Lemonade christened him, “Chicago’s Rising Superhero.” Along the way, he headlined shows coast-to-coast and shut down festival stages at Lollapalooza and beyond. He also collaborated with everyone from Smino to Dreezy. Throughout 2021, he assembled Non-Perishable out of his East Los Angeles apartment. He notably produced on every track, lending his touch to the entirety of the project. After amassing hundreds of millions of streams, packing shows, and receiving acclaim from GQ, W Magazine, and more, he architects an immersive experience on his second full-length project and the first installment of a 2022 trilogy, Non-Perishable.

LP+CD+7"

Tkay Maidza, the first female rapper signed to 4AD, announces details of her highly anticipated new album, Sweet Justice. The follow-up to her 2016 self-titled debut will be released on 3 November and includes the recent Flume-produced earth-shuddering single ‘Silent Assassin’. Today, Tkay shares a blistering new track, ‘Ring-A-Ling’ and official video directed by Jocelyn Anquetil.

“I’m never choosing compliance,” a defiant Maidza utters ‘Ring-A-Ling’; a warning from the Zimbabwean-born, Australian-raised, Los Angeles-based rapper, singer and producer and a mantra for Sweet Justice. Produced by Two Fresh, Tkay says of ‘Ring-A-Ling’, “I wanted to make an empowering song that tells others that my biggest focus are my goals.”

The result of a dark night of the soul—and ensuing epiphany—that led to a series of professional and personal reckonings, Sweet Justice isn’t a revenge album, but it does stem from a profound sense of karma. In a traditional sense, it’s a breakup record: about Tkay splitting off from her self-doubt and warped sense of self; the toxic figures that populated the last chapter of her life; and the idea that she should stick to any one lane.

After severing ties with old friends, she found some new ones on the same creative wavelength: Canadian producers Stint and Kaytranada, and fellow Australian Flume, all of whom contribute production. Sweet Justice is an album that embodies the beautiful contradictions of Tkay’s art: it’s a coming-of-age record by someone who’s mastered the game; an album about karmic justice and accountability that’s bright, breezy and incredibly fun. In Tkay’s mind, it’s a rebirth album, a record about harnessing the feminine power that was innate in her the whole time.

Tkay Maidza says, “Sweet Justice was a way for me to channel my emotions from what I’ve experienced in the last two years. It’s a diary of things and thoughts I’ve kept to myself. Making the record was a healing experience and I’m grateful to have worked with producers who have inspired me throughout my career.” Sweet Justice follows the 3-year-long, 24 song-strong genre-bending Last Year Was Weird trilogy exploring Maidza’s own African-Australian experience. The project earned her a 2021 ARIA Awards win for Best Soul/R&B Release and an NME Award for Best Solo Act From Australia in 2022. Following on from tours with Billie Eilish and Dua Lipa, Tkay is currently in the southern hemisphere for arena shows with Lizzo with her own headline shows to be announced soon.

The Tipping Point is the seventh studio album by The Roots, released on July 13, 2004. Named after Malcolm Gladwell's 2000 book "The Tipping Point", which explores how small events can create a significant change in society, the album reflects on similar themes, particularly focusing on pivotal moments in personal and social contexts. The album stands out in The Roots' discography for blending their signature live instrumentation with a more mainstream sound, while still retaining their thought-provoking lyrics and genre-blending approach.

The Tipping Point represents a more commercially oriented sound for The Roots, with a balance of socially conscious lyrics and tracks that experiment with more accessible, radio-friendly production.
The album was a response to pressures from their record label, which wanted more hits, yet it still maintained the group's focus on lyrical depth and musicality.
The album’s production incorporates a mix of live instruments, samples, and digital production, with a stronger emphasis on funk, soul, and rock influences compared to their earlier, more jazz-heavy works.

The album contains a wide range of musical styles, combining live instrumentation with soul, funk, and R&B elements, but also introduces more polished and radio-friendly production than previous albums like Phrenology or Things Fall Apart.
Despite its more polished sound, Questlove's signature drumming and The Roots' musicianship are still prominent, especially in the live instrumentation, which is a hallmark of their music.
Black Thought (Tariq Trotter) remains the lyrical centerpiece, delivering complex, socially aware verses that delve into issues like racial identity, inequality, the commercialization of hip-hop, and personal reflections on fame and success.

Key Tracks and Highlights:
"Star/Pointro" – The album opens with a meditative introduction, blending Marvin Gaye's classic "Everybody’s Gotta Learn Sometime" with Black Thought’s reflective lyrics. The song transitions into a brassy, upbeat rhythm, setting the tone for the album’s experimental approach.
"I Don't Care" – A funky, groovy track where Black Thought tackles the pressures of staying relevant and true to his roots in an industry that often prioritizes commercial success over artistry.
"Don't Say Nuthin'" – One of the album's lead singles, driven by a minimalist beat and a dark, hypnotic atmosphere. Black Thought delivers a smooth, almost detached flow, commenting on the challenges of staying silent in a world full of noise and pressure.
"Guns Are Drawn" – A politically charged track with a heavy bassline and a haunting, reflective hook. Black Thought and guest MCs explore themes of social injustice, gun violence, and the struggles faced by Black communities in America.
"Stay Cool" – Built around a playful and funky beat, this track features smooth production with a retro feel, reflecting on maintaining composure and self-awareness in the face of societal pressures and distractions.
"Web" – A standout track, with Black Thought delivering a rapid-fire, no-hook lyrical performance. It's one of the most lyrically dense songs on the album, showcasing Black Thought’s verbal agility and intricate wordplay.
"Boom!" (featuring DJ Jazzy Jeff) – A tribute to classic hip-hop, with Questlove and Black Thought taking listeners back to the days of boom-bap, reminiscent of earlier hip-hop production styles, but with a modern twist. DJ Jazzy Jeff’s scratches add an old-school flavor.

Commercialization of Hip-Hop: Many tracks, such as “Don’t Say Nuthin'” and “I Don’t Care,” reflect The Roots' critique of the way mainstream hip-hop has evolved, focusing more on materialism and less on the artistry that originally defined the genre.
Socio-Political Commentary: The album delves into various social issues, such as gun violence (“Guns Are Drawn”) and racial inequality, exploring the frustrations of systemic problems that plague society.
Personal Reflection and Artistic Integrity: Black Thought explores his role as an artist in the modern music industry, balancing the need to create commercially viable music while staying true to his roots and values. This tension is a recurring theme throughout the album.

Questlove and Richard Nichols handled the bulk of the production, while Scott Storch and Damon Bryson (aka Tuba Gooding Jr.) contributed to various tracks.
DJ Jazzy Jeff made an appearance on “Boom!”, providing turntablism that adds an old-school hip-hop feel to the track.
The production on The Tipping Point is a blend of organic and digital sounds, with live instruments meshing with sampled beats, reflecting The Roots' ability to navigate both the hip-hop underground and the mainstream.

The Tipping Point received generally positive reviews from critics, though it was sometimes viewed as less groundbreaking compared to previous works like Things Fall Apart or Phrenology.
While some critics praised the album’s production and the lyrical depth of Black Thought, others felt that the more commercial sound detracted from the experimental, genre-pushing elements that had characterized The Roots’ earlier work.
The single “Don’t Say Nuthin'” became one of the group’s more successful radio hits, though it was seen as a departure from the soulfulness and live instrumentation of their previous albums.
Commercial Performance:
The album debuted at #4 on the Billboard 200, making it one of The Roots' highest-charting albums at the time, driven by the popularity of singles like “Don’t Say Nuthin'” and “Stay Cool.”
The Tipping Point did not reach the same commercial success as some later albums, but it represented a pivotal moment where The Roots began to bridge their underground sound with broader mainstream appeal.
Legacy and Impact:
The Tipping Point marked an important transition in The Roots’ career, showcasing their ability to adapt to the changing landscape of hip-hop while still maintaining their identity as a live band.
Though not as critically acclaimed as some of their other albums, it remains an important work in The Roots' discography, as it captures a moment where the group was negotiating their place within an increasingly commercialized industry.
Following The Tipping Point, The Roots would take their music in even more experimental and socially conscious directions with albums like Game Theory (2006) and Rising Down (2008), reinforcing their reputation as hip-hop innovators with a distinct voice.
In summary, The Tipping Point is a pivotal album in The Roots' evolution, blending commercial ambition with their trademark musicality and lyricism, and showcasing their ability to balance mainstream appeal with artistic depth.

Deluxe Edition celebrating the 25th Anniversary of the second The Roots album. Comes with a 24-page booklet. Must have!

Do You Want More?!!!??! is the second studio album by The Roots, released on January 17, 1995. This album is a landmark in hip-hop because it showcases The Roots' use of live instrumentation rather than relying on samples and drum machines, which was the dominant production method in rap at the time. It helped establish The Roots as a unique force within hip-hop, blending genres like jazz, funk, and soul into their music and standing out as pioneers of the "alternative rap" movement.

The album is notable for its organic sound, primarily driven by live instruments, with contributions from musicians such as drummer Questlove, keyboardist Scott Storch, and bassist Leonard Hubbard.
It represents The Roots’ early jazz-influenced, laid-back sound, which sharply contrasted with the harder, sample-driven beats of mainstream hip-hop in the mid-1990s.
Do You Want More?!!!??! was the group’s first major-label release (on DGC/Geffen Records) and introduced them to a broader audience beyond their underground roots.

The album is known for its strong jazz-rap influence, with heavy use of improvisation, live drumming, and horn sections, giving it a feel akin to a live jam session.
The Roots draw from the traditions of jazz and soul music, fusing those styles with the vocal rhythms and lyrical complexity of hip-hop.
Beatboxing and vocal percussion are also used throughout the album, particularly with contributions from Rahzel, known as "The Godfather of Noyze," who uses his beatboxing skills as an instrument in several tracks.

Lyrically, Black Thought (Tariq Trotter) and Malik B (Malik Abdul Basit) address topics ranging from urban life and relationships to the state of hip-hop and artistic integrity.
Much of the album is celebratory, exploring themes like the joy of performing, living in the moment, and reflecting on personal experiences.
The lyrics are often introspective and conversational, matching the album’s laid-back, jazzy feel. Unlike the aggressive or gangsta rap style popular at the time, the focus here is more on storytelling and social commentary.

Key Tracks and Highlights:
"Proceed" – One of the album’s standout singles, with a mellow, jazzy beat and Black Thought's smooth, confident flow. This track became one of The Roots' signature songs, with several remix versions following its release.
"Distortion to Static" – A jazz-heavy, upbeat track that features both Black Thought and Malik B trading verses, with intricate lyricism and a distinct live sound. This song helped establish their reputation as lyrical craftsmen.
"Mellow My Man" – A smooth, funk-infused track that showcases The Roots' musicianship, particularly Questlove’s drumming, and explores more laid-back, reflective themes.
"Essaywhuman?!!!??!" – An almost entirely improvised, live track, with live scatting and beatboxing, blending hip-hop with jazz in real-time, giving the listener a glimpse of The Roots' live performance energy.
"Silent Treatment" – One of the few songs on the album that delves into personal relationships, specifically the emotional dynamics of a romantic relationship gone awry. The song’s smooth delivery and production make it one of the more accessible tracks on the album.
"Datskat" – A playful track with an emphasis on jazz improvisation, including a prominent saxophone section and Rahzel’s beatboxing, highlighting the album’s unique sonic experimentation.
Collaborations and Guest Appearances:
Rahzel (beatboxing) and Scott Storch (keyboards) both play significant roles on this album, contributing to its eclectic, live-instrument sound.
Saxophonist Steve Coleman and trumpeter Graham Haynes lend their jazz expertise, enhancing the album’s jazz-fusion vibe.

Do You Want More?!!!??! received critical acclaim for its innovative use of live instrumentation and jazz influences in hip-hop. Critics praised the album for its originality and the band’s musical proficiency.
The album was celebrated for breaking away from the sample-driven norm of hip-hop production in the 1990s, helping to expand the genre’s sonic possibilities.
Despite its critical success, Do You Want More?!!!??! did not achieve major commercial success at the time, but it has since gained a cult following and is regarded as a classic in both hip-hop and alternative music circles.
Themes:
A key theme in the album is the exploration of musicianship in hip-hop. By blending jazz improvisation and live performances with rap, The Roots were not just making music—they were actively challenging the boundaries of what hip-hop could be.
Cultural identity and artistic integrity also play central roles in the lyrics, with Black Thought and Malik B often ruminating on their roles as artists in a changing and often commodified hip-hop landscape.

While not a massive commercial hit upon release, Do You Want More?!!!??! has become regarded as one of the seminal albums of the jazz-rap genre and a landmark in alternative hip-hop.
The album set the stage for The Roots’ later success and is seen as an important precursor to their subsequent, more polished and socially-conscious works, like Things Fall Apart (1999).
Do You Want More?!!!??! also helped to redefine live hip-hop performance, as The Roots proved that a live band could create complex, compelling music that resonated both within and beyond the hip-hop community.
Its influence extends to many artists in hip-hop and neo-soul, especially those involved with the Soulquarians, a collective of artists like Erykah Badu, D’Angelo, and Common with whom The Roots would collaborate extensively.
The album's blend of jazz, live instrumentation, and socially-conscious lyrics helped The Roots carve out a distinct niche in the hip-hop world, making Do You Want More?!!!??! a defining moment in their career and a critical touchstone in the evolution of alternative hip-hop.

It may have taken the Notorious B.I.G. a few years to follow up his milestone debut, Ready to Die (1994), with another album, but when he did return with Life After Death in 1997, he did so in a huge way. The ambitious album, intended as somewhat of a sequel to Ready to Die, picking up where its predecessor left off, sprawled across the span of two discs, each filled with music, 24 songs in all. You'd expect any album this sprawling to include some lackluster filler. That's not really the case with Life After Death, however. Like 2Pac's All Eyez on Me from a year before, an obvious influence, Biggie's album made extensive use of various producers -- DJ Premier, Easy Mo Bee, Clark Kent, RZA, and more of New York's finest -- resulting in a diverse, eclectic array of songs. Plus, Biggie similarly brought in various guest rappers -- Jay-Z, Lil' Kim, Bone Thugs, Too $hort, L.O.X., Mase -- a few vocalists -- R. Kelly, Angela Winbush, 112 -- and, of course, Puff Daddy, who is much more omnipresent here than on Ready to Die, where he mostly remained on the sidelines. It's perhaps Puffy himself to thank for this album's biggest hits: "Mo Money Mo Problems," "Hypnotize," "Sky's the Limit," three songs that definitely owe much to his pop touch. There's still plenty of the gangsta tales on Life After Death that won Biggie so much admiration on the streets, but it's the pop-laced songs that stand out as highlights. In hindsight, Biggie couldn't have ended his career with a more fitting album than Life After Death. Over the course of only two albums, he achieved every success imaginable, perhaps none greater than this unabashedly over-reaching success. Ready to Die is a milestone album, for sure, but it's nowhere near as extravagant or epic as Life After Death. - allmusic.com

All bangers on a replica of the original promo record to promote both albums.

Given out as part of the ''B.I.G. MACK'' promo only package from Bad Boy Entertainment in 1994. To
create a buzz around the new record label and these artists Puff Daddy came out with an unforgettable marketing campaign. The results would exceed everyone's expectations. Craig Mack's Funk Da World would go gold and the single ''Flava In Your Ear'' would go platinum. As everyone knows Biggie's career went into the stratosphere with his
album Ready To Die eventually going 6x platinum and the single ''Juicy'' going gold that same year.

The Last Poets are widely credited as the godfathers of Hip-Hop. Transcending Toxic Times is the album that fully defines their careers and legacy. Artfully recorded and produced by Jamaaladeen Tacuma (Ornette Coleman), the album intertwines the groove of Black culture with The Last Poets powerful words and cadence. Special Guests Malik B, Ursula Rucker, Tim Motzer, and Wadud Ahmad. This record will finally define the correct blend of poetry, jazz, Hip-Hop, and Soul, with the full expectation that it will be emulated for years to come.
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Limited to 350 copies. HHE is proud to announce The Last Emperor's "Gotta Have Love EP" for the first time ever on CD! The CD edition will contain 8 early legendary tracks from the Last Emperor's vaults recorded in the late 90's and early 00's!! The Last Emperor is a Philly born MC who first burst upon the scene back in 1996 with the epic Bums/Monumental/Secret Wars Part 1 12". After studying political science at Lincoln, the Philly native originally saw himself working for the United Nations. That is until Dr. Dre, who got Emp’s tape from a college buddy, signed him to his Aftermath label. Even though his debut never came to fruition, The Last Emperor made the decision to further pursue a rap career. The Last Emperor made the decision then to permanently move to New York where he began performing at open mic nights and started getting a lot of attention from labels. He then proceeded to sign with Rawkus, where he released a single but Rawkus folded 6 months after he signed so his debut album was postponed once again. After that The Last Emperor decided to take matters into his own hands and launched Red Planet Music. In collaboration with Raptivism he then released "Music, Magic, and Myth" in 2003 and later on the same year "Palace of the Pretender" in the UK which pretty much had a similar tracklist. Limited to 350 copies only!

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!

For The Geek and VRV, everything is a matter of time. Since they first met six years ago, the two beatmakers have been broadcasting their music to the four corners of the world, and their collaboration is as strong as ever after the years. Vanguards of the French instrumental hip-hop scene, they’re coming out today with their first album, Time Machine, a synthesis of the sounds and the ideas they’ve been working on from the very beginning of their careers. A trip back through time, as its name suggests, demonstrating the range of sound possibilities that they created in previous projects and on their international tours.

Since our first contact with NYC based producer Thavius Beck in 2018, he sent us over 100 unreleased tracks, or beats, as he calls them. 25 of them have been selected for releases on U-trax, good for over 2 hours of music, across this album and the Lovesick EP.
Growing up in LA, Thavius Beck entered the hip-hop scene as member of Global Phlowtations, and released several solo albums under the Adlib moniker. In later years, he released five albums under his own name on labels like Mush, Big Dada and Plug Research, and also produced albums for artists like Saul Williams and K‑the‑I???, and did some remixing for amongst others Nine Inch Nails. Nowadays he combines making music with a career as a succesful certified Ableton and Bitwig trainer and as a music teacher at Berklee NYC.
The tracks vary in style a lot, but what they have in common is that they either are moody – in U-trax lingo: deep - or they are drum heavy. The common denominator would probably be 'experimental/instrumental hip-hop', reminiscent of producers like Flying Lotus. People have tried all sorts of comparisons to pinpoint Thavius' sound, ranging from 'between DJ Shadow and Orbital' and 'a mix of Massive Attack and The Orb'. None of these are spot on, yet quite a few of these tracks feel like a happy marriage between hip-hop beats and techno sounds.
Despite the fact that some tracks are 20 years old and have been made with widely different gear (one track was even made on a PlayStation 2), this selection sounds remarkably balanced, yet diverse.
From the irresistible single 'Lovesick/Still Sick' to the dark and massive 'Birdsong' (that echoes the sound of his popular song 'Atmos'), and from the head-nodding 'Work!' to the soothing 'Reunited With The All' - if this collection showcases anything, it's Thavius' brilliant production and composing skills, as well as his wizard-level sampling techniques. The result is a luscious electronic music album with a broad appeal.
Available on double 180 grams colored vinyl vinyl, comes in gatefold picture sleeve.

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.

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.

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.

‘Of Process and Progression’ is a perfectly balanced combination of hip-hop, jazz, and soul from longtime collaborators Tall Black Guy & Ozay Moore, who continue to push themselves creatively after a collective more than 30 years in the game. On each and every track on this LP, the duo beautifully blend Golden Era boom-bap with modern sounds to deliver something altogether timeless and inspiring.

There’s just so much to love about ‘OPAP,’ an easy candidate for one of the year’s best releases, regardless of genre. Both TBG and Ozay have been on a tear these past few years with their respective careers, but it’s safe to say they’re reaching a new peak together with this release.

HHV exclusive vinyl edition on grey vinyl, limited to 200 copies.

Lyrically gifted, socially aware, and politically insightful, Talib Kweli is one of the most influential hip-hop artists of the last 25 years. His early collaborative albums with Mos Def and Hi-Tek were among the most important releases in the genesis of modern rap, forging a future for thought-provoking lyricism and raw soundscapes as mass commercialization threatened the soul of the genre. Now more than two decades into a thrilling solo career, Kweli has evolved creatively, whiling maintaining his artistic integrity. Known for classic collaborative albums with artists like J Dilla, MF Doom, and Freddie Gibbs, widely celebrated producer Madlib is a sampling savant and talented multi-instrumentalist. After releasing a groundbreaking joint project back in 2006, Talib Kweli and Madlib are reuniting for the highly-anticipated follow-up Liberation 2. Expansive in concept, the album is a vivid exploration of revolution, love, pan-Africanism, music, spirituality, and more, with Madlib’s jazz-inflected instrumentals providing the perfect soundtrack. A global call for unity through space and time, Liberation 2 features appearances by Q-Tip, Westside Gunn, Roc Marciano, Roy Ayers, Goapele, Wildchild, Pink Siifu, and more, plus a posthumous verse by Mac Miller. Not on traditional digital outlets, the album is now available in physical form for the first time ever.

Lyrically gifted, socially aware, and politically insightful, Talib Kweli is one of the most influential hip-hop artists of the last 25 years. His early collaborative albums with Mos Def and Hi-Tek were among the most important releases in the genesis of modern rap, forging a future for thought-provoking lyricism and raw soundscapes at a moment when mass commercialization threatened the soul of the genre. Now more than two decades into a thrilling solo career, Kweli has evolved creatively while maintaining his artistic integrity, working with top talent across the musical spectrum in the process. Known for classic collaborative albums with artists like J Dilla, MF Doom, and Freddie Gibbs, widely celebrated producer Madlib is a sampling savant who has crafted beats for the likes of Erykah Badu, Anderson .Paak, Tyler The Creator, Logic, De La Soul, and many more. After releasing a groundbreaking collaborative project back in 2006, Madlib and Talib Kweli are reuniting for the highly-anticipated follow-up Liberation 2. Expansive in concept, the album is a vivid exploration of revolution, love, pan-Africanism, music, spirituality, and more, with Madlib’s jazz-inflected instrumentals providing the perfect soundtrack. “The materialism and debauchery that is stereotypically associated with hip hop has lost some of its luster,” Kweli explains. ìNever has there been a better time for such honest, message driven music that pays tribute to the sounds that came before us.” A global call for unity through space and time, Liberation 2 features appearances by Q-Tip, Westside Gunn, Roc Marciano, Roy Ayers, Goapele, Wildchild, Pink Siifu, and more, plus a posthumous verse by Mac Miller. Not on traditional digital outlets, the album is now available in physical form for the first time ever.

Lyrically gifted, socially aware, and politically insightful, Talib Kweli is one of the most influential hip-hop artists of the last 25 years. His early collaborative albums with Mos Def and Hi-Tek were among the most important releases in the genesis of modern rap, forging a future for thought-provoking lyricism and raw soundscapes at a moment when mass commercialization threatened the soul of the genre. Now more than two decades into a thrilling solo career, Kweli has evolved creatively while maintaining his artistic integrity, working with top talent across the musical spectrum in the process. Known for classic collaborative albums with artists like J Dilla, MF Doom, and Freddie Gibbs, widely celebrated producer Madlib is a sampling savant who has crafted beats for the likes of Erykah Badu, Anderson .Paak, Tyler The Creator, Logic, De La Soul, and many more. After releasing a groundbreaking collaborative project back in 2006, Madlib and Talib Kweli are reuniting for the highly-anticipated follow-up Liberation 2. Expansive in concept, the album is a vivid exploration of revolution, love, pan-Africanism, music, spirituality, and more, with Madlib’s jazz-inflected instrumentals providing the perfect soundtrack. “The materialism and debauchery that is stereotypically associated with hip hop has lost some of its luster,” Kweli explains. ìNever has there been a better time for such honest, message driven music that pays tribute to the sounds that came before us.” A global call for unity through space and time, Liberation 2 features appearances by Q-Tip, Westside Gunn, Roc Marciano, Roy Ayers, Goapele, Wildchild, Pink Siifu, and more, plus a posthumous verse by Mac Miller. Not on traditional digital outlets, the album is now available in physical form for the first time ever.

Sly, Sly Johnson, Sly The Mic Buddah : since the Saïan Supa Crew up until his solo career, the human beat machine keeps on increasing his numerous identities.

From Hip Hop to Soul, then from Soul to Beatmaking: from flow to singing, then from singing to production, Sly Johnson never really changed universe. He has just changed the direction of his musical compass in order to navigate with more flow.

Today, it’s immersed in the mechanics with processors and printed circuits that we find him, under the alias of TAGi, producer-beatmaker who, for the occasion, has joined the services of Steven Beatberg. It’s together, in artistic autarchy with the only presence of softwares, samplers and sequencers, that they have built their pieces in the light of their computer screens, rhythmizing the days by inserting snares or grindings of plugs taken from their sound database.

If records are, most of the time, Hip Hop’s nourishing materials, TAGi et Steven have however not used any samples. Their favourite recordings were not materials to exploit, but an aesthetic from which to inspire, compose, and search atmospheres and melodies, search his arrangements. After three EP dominated by instrumentals, the duo finally chose to realise their dream: to craft a multi-voice album where customized production for each guest would guide the creative process. To put themselves at the exclusive service of artists they particularly love, all different but connected by an uncompromising resistance to the commercial wind blowing on Hip Hop. For each one of them, they have built a title, keeping in mind the precise idea to put to light he or her that will vocally dress the bars.

Rapper Big Pooh, the former member of the Little Brother group (With Phonte & 9th Wonder), the contemporary soul of Lisa Spada, but also the rapist #madeinfrance Pumpkin (worthy descendant of MC Solaar, Fabe …), multi-faceted Georgia Anne Muldrow, the MC Finale, the new rising wave of artists of the Hip-Hop scene in Detroit. Tiemoko from Paris, Saga an MC who follows the pure tradition of the New York Hip-Hop, the very smooth-jazzy Elodie Rama and Dilouya, the producer of the previous record of Sly (The Mic Buddah), are of this casting where men and women share the roles and where TAGi, as soon as the mic presents itself to him, becomes again Sly Johnson for some refrains, choruses or solo rereading of the sublime “Retrograde” of James Blake.

Guided by Hip Hop since the 90’s until today, worked in great detail, YOUARESURROUNDED highlights vintage keyboards on granular rhythms, injecting a lascivious Soul, P-funk, electro futuristic or melancholic in black and white touches on 13 tracks that are as atmospheric as they are emotional.

The substance, the essence, the soul of the Hip-Hop.

Suff Daddy (578k monthly listeners on Spotify), is one of the legendary beatmakers who shaped a whole era of bedroom producers. His unique approach and musical understanding sets him apart from all the other fish in the pond. He has released countless genre-defining albums and EP’s over the past 15 years building a loyal fanbase. Suff Daddy's songs have previously been featured in many editorial playlists including Spotify's "Jazz Vibes" (2.1M Likes), "butter" (770k Likes), "Sweet Soul Chillout" (1.2M Likes) and many more.

Introducing "Hair Of The Dog," Suff Daddys musical journey that blends instrumental hip-hop, electronic, and dance genres. This captivating album, produced with his own Suff Style invites listeners to unwind From start to finish. Once again a Suff Daddy album thrives on the pure brilliance of his on way to create music. The album's cover art, masterfully crafted by the renowned painter Mitch (@itsallinsideus, 165k Followers), adds an intriguing visual dimension to the experience. Both artists have known each other for a long time and are currently preparing their audiovisual release- event for August 18th in Berlin. Bringing their art together as a unique experience for their audience.

The phrase "Hair of the dog that bit you" commonly denotes consuming alcohol as a remedy for a hangover, aiming to alleviate its effects. Suff Daddy plans to introduce his own hangover solution, which will be plant-based and devoid of alcohol. Through all of his career he frequently played with alcohol references and now its the perfect timing to release his own hangover cure. Additionally, this endeavor will serve as a social media catalyst for the entire project.

Hailing from Massilon, Ohio, rapper Stalley has a well-deserved reputation for being a potent on-stage presence, and a force of hip-hop lyrical acumen. Throughout his career he has lent his distinctly Midwestern take on Dirty South-style rap to collaborations with veterans like Scarface, Curren$y, Ski Beatz, Paul Wall, and Rick Ross, with whom he has had a longtime association with, from his time as a signee of Ross' own Maybach Music Group label.
Now in 2018, Stalley finds himself riding solo once again, and unrestrained by a label, and creatively free. This lack of inhibitions comes out in full force on his new EP Tell The Truth Shame The Devil. Produced largely by Supah Mario (Drake, Young Thug, 2 Chainz), Tell The Truth takes an emotional detour from the familiar club anthems of his previous works, touching on issues of vulnerability, suicidal thoughts, artistic freedom, and more intense lyrical fare. (Which is not to say the album is completely free of freewheeling, boastful party rap goodness.)
Featuring guest spots from the hip-hop rapscallions of Migos, and freestyle aficionado Young Scooter, Tell The Truth Shame The Devil is uncompromising, filled equally with starkness and bare honesty as it is with revelry and ostentation.