Daily Mix: May 2007 Archives

The intro alone gets your head boppin'. DJ Teknikz partners up with the game's hottest up and coming producers KickDrums for the intro, which sounds like a montage of various southern hits from T.I and others. The mixtape feature new joints from the Grand Hustle's finest; T.I, Young Dro, J.R., Mac Boney. You know what they say -Can't Knock the Hustle!

The mixtape stays true the music scene in Georgia. Non-stop hits via the south are infiltrating mainstream hip hop, but none other like Atlanta, Georgia. The mixtape highlights the power of Georgia in the well-fitting titled mixtape "Georgia Power 4."

Is R.Kelly and T Pain featured on every song hitting the airwaves? Hey, we're not complaining. The Ice Cream Man brings some exclusive shit from R.Kelly, T-Pain and Lil Kim on the "We Takin Over (Remix)". Welcome back Lil Kim! She came back with a bang!

Other bangers on this mixtape include "Represent" featuring Rick Ross and Lil Wayne. This track could easily be the next Southern Anthem. DJ 31 Degreez shows NYC some love also on "Hustler Blocks" featuring Brooklyn's Finest, Fabolous and Jay-Z.

I would assume that anyone who lives or works in Manhattan or any part of NYC knows that life is fast paced here. We are always in a rush, getting our hustle on. Places to go, work to do, trains or buses to catch, people to see (or people to do for some of you out there).

Let's keep it real mi gente! I am beginning to believe that everyone hasn't gotten the memo about how we do in NYC. I get so damn frustrated with the random people stopping in the middle of the sidewalk abruptly. They stop right in front of you without warning and we almost trip over them and then they bitch when you knock into them...move you're ass to the side and then that won't happen.

Then you have the people in front of you on line in the store paying with dollars worth of change and you have to wait until it's counted. CoinStar machines people!!! They even have these brown wrapper thingies in the bank for your change that helps you control and keep count of your millions....use them please and get it together!

I love Hip hop but since when has it gone "Guns -N- Roses"? I mean, fine it's been a slow on-going trend that has been sneaking itself into hip hop culture; I'm rather glad guys don't rock their jeans 10x their size and hang'em off their ass (which is still a work in progress for some guys.) I love that Converse sneakers are now a staple to everyone (even though I got made fun of four years ago for wearing "white people kicks"....really?).

So now the hood/bling chic mold of hip hop is changing and more "hard core rappers" dress like Backstreet Boys instead of street corner drug dealers (not that the BSB are hardcore rockers in any way). It's finally ok to say "Dude" (and no one looks at me weird for saying it). So then it's safe to assume the Shop Boyz really are giving props to rock stars with their hit "Party Like a Rock Star"; or at least they're taking it to the bank (with only mere mockeries...."totally dude"..."kow-a-bonga"?...rockers are not Ninja Turtles, DUDE).

The video is a total mess, but so are true rock stars so I suppose it's fitting. It's nice to hear to two genres blended...but the over saturation of "totally dude!!!!"...dude we don't talk like that. They got their party on like rock stars but seeing hood-rats in rocker-chic gear, throwin "rock-on signs" while still acting like hoodrats is not cool, but "you iz what you iz".

In the end, I enjoyed it. The single is strong and catchy...I see a remix in Diddy's future - so go ahead and embrace this ummmmm....Hip Hop - Rock Star Mentality dude!

In a room full of women, the topic of hair is bound to surface occasionally. That's why we just had to represent for Miss Jessie's hair products. A little pricey but we all agree it's worth it. So with that said...back to work! We got hair products we need to work for. Right ladies?

DJ Neil Armstrong is easily considered a veteran in the underground scene. Maintaining 10 years strong in the game, DJ Neil Armstrong has hit the stage with the biggest names in Hip Hop. The likes of De La Soul, Company Flow, Biz Markie, LL Cool J, Busta Rhymes and Wyclef Jean have instilled the help of DJ Neil Armstrong.

As well as making the party rock, Armstrong is also responsible for some timeless mixtapes. In 2005, Rolling Stones magazine included him in the "Top 10 Mixtape DJ's". Other honorable mentions include nominations at the Justo Mixtape Awards in 2006 for Best Mixtape DJ and Best Blends DJ.
Armstrong was also a member of the critically acclaimed two time Grammy nominated jazz band, "Russell Gunn and Ethnomusicology". During the time he was with the band, Armstrong traveled the globe and graced the stage at The North Sea Jazz Festival in Den Hague, Netherlands.
Originality and creativity have helped DJ Neil Armstrong become a well respected DJ in a crowed market.

You may recognize the name from the nineties group "Born Jamericans" and his voice has been featured on hits from reggaeton artists including; Daddy Yankee, Don Omar, Voltio, Hector El Father and others. He is a steady force in the reggae scene. Born of Cuban, Puerto Rican & Jamaican descent, he brings multi-cultural sounds and unity to his music.

Although Notch is not the first artist fusing multi-cultural sounds, he is on a personal crusade to break down some major language and cultural barriers with his highly anticipated solo album release "Raised By The People" (a joint venture between Notch's label, Cinco Por Cinco, and Universal's Machete Music). Latin and Caribbean genres including dancehall and roots reggae, merengue, bachata, reggaeton, cumbia from Colombia are all brought together with Notch's melodic vocal stylings.

So let's take it back a few years in 2000...." La da da daaa.......I was gonna clean my room until I got high, I was gonna get up and find the broom but then I got high, my room is still messed up and I know why yea hey, because I got high, because I got high, because I got high..." well, did Afroman get so high he forgot about EVERYTHING?....I mean I know weed kills brain cells but damn, "Where'd you go?" Well this one hit wonder is still showing some life via Billboards Top Ring tones.

"...No one ever really talks about the effects of marijuana. We know about the effects of drinking beer, we know about the effects of looking at a naked lady, but nobody knew about the effects of smoking weed. Actually, the problem was more that the people who did know weren't songwriters...so I decided to write that song," says Afroman, (and he's right....maybe) and with reason weed is wack...says the surgeon general (eh-hem).

The truth is, Afroman is still around and I'm pretty sure he is still high. So what has he been up to? Afroman has a website, his own label - Hungry Hustler Records, a MYSPACE page for all you addicts and "Waiting to Inhale" his latest release which is packed with hilarious mockeries of the latest hits. Think of him as a black Weird Al...but super high.

www.afromanmusic.com
http://www.hungryhustlerrecords.com/
http://www.myspace.com/afromanmusic

Vlad the Impaler? "You know, Romanian guy, use to enjoy impaling people..." says Vlad the Butcher; no relation (as he motions impaling someone). Maybe it's the fact that this guy was a sadistic ruler of his time (some say of all time) which brings a certain obscurity to the name. Vlad, ruler of Wallachia in the mid 15th century, who is infamous for murdering hundred of thousands of people through his torturous way; like burning them alive, nails to the head, cutting limbs off, chopping off someone's nose and ears, maiming your "Johnson", scalping, exposure to the elements or feeding you to wild animals, skinning you alive, oh, and of course; impalement, hanging them out to "dry" on his front lawn...still not ringing a bell? Well how about Vlad Tepes? No?...Well, Vlad was named after his father, their last name, Tepes is the Romanian word for "Impaler".

Now here is another name you should ALL be familiar with... (bare with me) Daddy Vlad was part of a secret order of knights (of course); Order of the Dragon. They upheld Christianity against the Ottoman Turks back in the days. So, the Romanian word for dragon is "drac" (but that is also the word for Devil)...and the term "ul" means a definitive article. (I'm not sure what that really has to do with anything) hence, daddy Vlad was named Dracul and his son became Dracula as "ula" means the son of. So what does the world expect when your kid is named Vlad the Impaler - Son of the Devil, it seems to be a fitting for he who turned out to be...a ruler at any cost.

Now fast forward to the 21st century, we have Vlad the Butcher, aside from getting his DJ name from Mr. Habitual Impaler, DJ Vlad, in his own career has hung many DJ's out to dry, and is ruling the scene both here and aboard. Winning awards left to right:

Number 3 Hip-Hop Album of All Time for Rap Phenomenon II
Rolling Stone "Mixtape Series of the Year,"
Vibe Magazine "Bootleg of the Year,"
XXL Magazine "Mixtape of the Year
Justo's Mixtape Awards, Mashup of the Year for Rock Phenomenon

His philosophy is quit simple; "I don't play exclusive songs, I make them" and with countless accolades to boot it's known; when Vlad drops a mixtape, it's serious, like his "2Pac: Rap Phenomenon II" effort (a collaboration with Green Lantern & Dirty Harry). Vlad also paid tribute to The Notorious B.I.G. in the original Rap Phenomenon, his Hot In Here series which branched off in to DVD format along with well selling Girlz of Brazil, the list goes on. Within a relatively short time, DJ Vlad escalated to the top of the DJ world and generated quite a name for himself. DJ Vlad was also one of the first DJ's to release his mixtapes on the internet via MP3 status, seeing there wasn't an outlet in California for getting his music out to the masses, he made one. Dropping on websites "it was easy for people to pick them up from all over the world... [it was the] first real exposure I had...and I liked it..."

He started out in Hip-Hop during the 80's when break-dancing was a way of life, fast forward to the 90's and he's producing music which quickly lead him into DJ'ing...the rest has already been scalded in mixtape history and like Dracula, his work is destined to last forever.

It's rumored that The Clipse is finally set free from their binding record deal with Jive records. After years of album delays and label setbacks, the duo is ready to be released.

Malice confirmed their liberation to Toronto publication Eye Weekly saying, "Right now Clipse are free agents. There are a few labels that are interested." The Clipse have been very vocal about their feelings towards Jive Records. Back in 2006, Pusha T, of The Clipse was quoted; "I hate Jive with all my heart and all the passion and my soul."

Now that they are set free, we wonder...what's next for The Clipse?

What is the significance of mixtapes in our society today? You need to watch this! This documentary takes you inside the revolution that is ensuing between Mixtape DJ's, Artists, Retailers, authorities (RIAA, Copyright Infringement) and the Record Labels. Truth be told; without these mixtapes Hip Hop today would not be the same.

Some of our favorite artists might not even exist today without the mixtape industry. It gave unknown artists a platform to be heard and judged by their people and not by corporate America. See the social, cultural and economic impact that mixtapes and this legal battle have in our society and why these so called illegal items are an essential part of the Hip Hop World and our communities.

Seems like Jada has been out of the spotlight for a bit and is not happy with the current status of the Hip Hop game. He has no problem expressing that on this new release. Al Queda Jada, the raspy-voiced lyricist and front man of D Block is back now and doing it again with his latest collabo with Big Mike "The Predator is Back".

The mixtape features 19 tracks of new Jada material and tracks from Joell Ortiz ft Saigon (Hip Hop),Young Jeezy (Go Getter) Styles P and Sheik Louch . Jada spits a verse saying that this is just "Jazzercise", so I guess he's just getting warmed up for his new album release coming soon.

After trailblazing around the globe numerous times with Gang Starr as a core member of the Gang Starr Foundation, Big Shug, who has appeared on Gang Starr's classics such as 1994's Hard To Earn "F.A.L.A.," 1998's Moment Of Truth "The Militia" and 2003's Gold-certified The Ownerz "Capture" (Militia Pt.3), follow's up his 2005 debut, Who's Hard, with his sophomore LP---Streetchamp.

Fans of Gang Starr and Big Shug have been waiting anxiously for this de facto team member to re-emerge and Shug answers the street's call with Streetchamp, which will be released on July 17th, 2007 courtesy of Babygrande Records.

Staying true to the Gang Starr Foundation formula, Big Shug recreates his indelible bond with DJ Premier on Streetchamp with three tracks, including the street-banger "It Just Don't Stop." For round two, however, Shug also taps rising producer MoSS (AZ, Joell Ortiz, Sean Price, Ghostface Killah as well as contributions on forthcoming LP's from Sheek Louch, Red Cafe) to guide his sonic tour de force. Streetchamp also features guest appearances from Termanology and Sean Price and Infamous Mobb's Big Twins with the latter two joining forces on the massive posse cut "Leg Breakers."

Be sure to also check out Big Shug as he holds down co-hosting duties on DJ Premier's Sirius Satellite Radio show "Live From HeadQCourterz" every Friday night from midnight-2AM.

Tracklisting and credits for Big Shug's Streetchamp:

1.) Intro (produced by MoSS)
2.) Streetchamp (produced by MoSS)
3.) Hood With That (produced by MoSS)
4.) Play It (Produced by DJ Premier)
5.) Warpath f/Termanology & Ea$y Money of ST. (produced by MoSS)
6.) Walk Away (produced by MoSS)
7.) Leg Breakers f/Big Twins of Infamous Mobb, Lil Fame of M.O.P. & Sean Price (produced by MoSS)
8.) Streets Move f/Singapore (produced by DJ Premier)
9.) Spit it Real (Produced by MoSS)
10.) It Just Don't Stop (Produced by DJ Premier)
11.) Call Me Back (Produced by MoSS)
12.) Spitfire f/Singapore Kane & Dre Robinson (produced by Kid Karnage)
13.) Hear Me (produced by MoSS)
14.) What U Gonna Do (produced by MoSS)
15.) Interlude
16.) Exposed (produced by MoSS)
17.) Lost (produced by MoSS)
18.) After Me (produced by MoSS)

www.crackspace.com/bigshug
www.babygrande.com
www.movementmarketing.net

Cold Summer is a certified street banger from top to bottom, featuring production work from CTE's stable of up-and-coming producers like Sanchez, Nazty, Midnight Black and Drumma Boy. "I wanted to do it mixtape-style 'cause I wanted it to be something for the streets," explains Jeezy.

Young Jeezy's back again to boast about money, cash and...white girls? Yup. Young Jeezy and his boys, USDA have a thing for the women lacking melanin. On the oh-so-cleverly titled track "White Girl," the guys rap about a Christina Aguilera-looking woman. The album also features the remix to the street anthem "Go Getta," featuring Bun B and Jadakiss.

Aside from the USDA project, Jeezy is still churning out videos from his album "The Inspiration." With the release of his next single "Dreamin" featuring Keisha Cole, Jeezy is also giving back to the 'hood by launching the "Make Your Dream Come True" contest. The contest allows fans to submit their stories to www.youngjeezy.com where Jeezy will review each dream. One winner will have their chance to have their dream come true.

Jeezy says about the contest; "Sometimes I look at my life and I'm amazed at how far I've come. If it wasn't for certain people supporting me, I don't think I'd be able to accomplish what I have...that's why I'm doing this for my fans. They're the ones who helped to make Young Jeezy number one and it's important that I give back to them. I wanted to do more than just say 'thank you,' I wanted to show them how thankful I am that they're helping me realize my dreams. For me, this whole contest, and even my career will make me feel like I've accomplished a lot if I can help someone else realize their dreams too."

Deadline for submissions is June 21. The winner will be announced on July 23.

For more information, visit www.youngjeezy.com or www.myspace.com/youngjeezy .

DJ Rondevu is back after a short hiatus and is ready to replenish the DVD game. DJ Rondevu breathes life back into the dying DVD circuit with his new project "Ghetto Penthouse." He highlights behind the scene action with artists, including Redman, The Clipse, Lil Wayne, Young Jeezy JR Writer, Fat Joe, Sean Price and countless others.

Remember being a child and wanting something so badly, you wanted it now!!!? Your parents told you that you had to wait and you just couldn't?.That's where the plan comes in to drive them nuts until you got your way. I have recently come across a few adults out there who are reverting to their childhood in this manner and throwing tantrums when they realize they must wait. What do the persistent daily calls of 3 times or more per day going to do for you except annoy the people you are trying to get help from and increase your phone bill? We handle tons of orders per day and are not at liberty to have alone time with one particular client at a time. If you need attention that badly you should be calling a therapist instead of customer service. We all know that you get more bees with honey, so a little more kindness and patience will get you further than being a repeat call offender.

It is to my understanding that we are supposed to have learned our ABC's and 123's in kindergarten because I know I did. So it's difficult to process grown men being revoltingly peevish in my right ear about miscalculations made on their behalf, or the continuing lack of being able to count the days on a calendar. This annoyance not only gives me a nagging headache but it's a waste of space in my Google e-mail account and frankly I don't have time for it. I'm sorry you can't count or make simple calculations...Use your fingers like little children do and if at your age you don't know how to spell your own name and address or know how to spell the countless aliases you use, please ask your mother before you hit us up complaining about not getting it right. I mean it is YOUR information if I'm not mistaken.

If there's one thing that I can't stand when I talk to advertising clients are those Artists and DJ's that just want to get on Mixtapekings.com to make money. Does anyone know the massive number of Artists and DJ's that contact the Mixtapekings premises to get on the site? Let me not scare you because that would make it sound like that there's no hope for real music. So here's a quiz question for you. Have you heard of the producer of the "The Rebirth of Hip Hop" mixtape? He claims he works with DJ Premier whom we all know for producing songs that consist of more than one beat, with his latest mixtape collaboration on Mixtapekings.com called "The Realness" with one of our newest renditions to the Mixtapekings.com DJ roster, DJ Rondevu. So this is what gets me about this producer. He contacts Mixtapekings.com about wanting to get added on to the site. I tell him what most artists should know when trying to make it in this industry; that in order to outshine the competition and build a "buzz", you have to invest in marketing and differentiating yourself from the rest. But this producer doesn't care about that. Instead, he waists two weeks of my time and 18 emails later tells me this: "yeah... I am definitely not paying...I can sell them in the record stores and/or through my myspace like i have been...I'm in this to make money not to spend ...sorry." Really Mr. Producer? Do you really think you are going to make it with that mentality? I'm sorry but Mixtapekings.com does not support those that are solely in this game to relinquish profits. Mixtapekings.com is an experience and movement where the artistry itself is the headliner. So Mr. Producer approaches Mixtapekings.com to get in the game and build a buzz about his new productions. Well, if BuZz is really trying to deliver the rebirth of hip hop to the masses, then he totally bashed his chances at being part of the true Hip Hop renaissance taking effect on Mixtapekings.com. Next!!

This MC puts you in check! All you wanna-be thugs out there, inspired by Tupac, you're emulating the wrong persona. Towards the ending of the track Ankh Amen Rah speaks to the youth that is so infatuated with the gangsta persona. Ankh Amen Rah says:

"All you rappers trying to be 'Pac, understand he was a revolutionary. Not just a killa'. Take the positive aspects, stop taking the negative. 'Cuz if you think negative, you get negative.

And we at Mixtapekings couldn't have said it better.

Hilary Duff AKA "Lizzy McGuire" and Slim Thug AKA "The Boss of all Bosses" apparently have become members of the teeny-bopper anorexic sex kitten - gangsta rapper love fest with their collaboration "With Love." Even the title oozes over saturated air play on Z100. I will admit it's a "pretty" little ditty kinda of collabo that gets on your nerves after the fifth time you listen to it and make you wonder what did Ms. Duff's people do to deserve Slim's presence on the track. Which leaves me pondering what the hell was he thinking to agree to this? No really I'm asking...If anyone knows please tell me.

Mixtapekings.com is home to many of your favorite artists and DJ's, so it is only right that we make their home more accommodating. As we all know hip hop has emerged as the biggest universal culture, and that culture is now crossing all media platforms. Mixtapekings.com is now doing the same. Mixtapekings.com Remixed will feature editorial content informing you on the hottest, the latest and the newest trends in the industry. Of course, we will still provide you with the hottest music, but now in a way that will excite your senses. The new mixtapekings website will include audio and video all designed to better the mixtape experience. Keep an eye out for our relaunch event; an event that is being blessed by hip hop veterans such as DJ Mister Cee and DJ Kool Herc.

DJ Butta isn't discrediting anybody in the game; all he's asking for is music with substance. Hip hop has grown tremendously, enough so that it's more than just a genre, it's a culture. Still, many feel that the culture is moving down the wrong path. The people are being fed with shallow music that glorifies guns, drugs and the objectification of women. Thus, The Wake Up mixtape is a calling to the Hip Hop culture. "We need to wake up. Hip Hop is still alive, just a little strayed away," says DJ Butta, the man behind the project. The corporate side of Hip Hop is too focused on the financial advantages of Hip Hop while completely forgetting the art of it. "No one speaks about things of substance," says Butta. "The underdogs, the lyrical ones aren't getting any shine." But the Wake Up mixtape was created to counteract the result of Hip Hop's corporate takeover. "Mixtapes are a great platform...a great avenue." And that's exactly what the Wake Up mixtape is looking to do: showcase the lost art in Hip Hop in one collective mixtape that features some of the most visual storytellers in the game such as Common, Talib Kweli, Joell Ortiz, Lupe Fiasco and others.

Mixtapekings.com is home to many of your favorite artists and DJ's, so it is only right that we make their home better accommodated for them. As we all know hip hop has emerged as the biggest universal culture, and that culture is now crossing all media platforms. Mixtapekings.com is now doing the same.

Mixtapekings.com Remixed will feature editorial content informing you on the hottest, the latest and the newest trends in the industry. Of course, we will still provide you with the hottest music, but now in a way that will excite your senses. The new Mixtapekings website will include audio and video all designed to better the mixtape experience. Keep an eye out for our re-launch event; an event that is being blessed by hip hop talents such as Serius Jones, Dujeous, Jae Millz & more. CLICK HERE for more info.

"Shorty got her mouth open like she want it

He might go home and smack her."

It's more than we need to know but can't deny wondering if this is true. Is Uncle Murda messin' with somebody else's chick?

By Isabel Arreaga
Staff Writer, Mixtapekings.com

So you may not have embraced this rising star from the west but lets take a little time to shine a light on Perfecto. Hailing from IngleWOOD, Perfecto drops Money is Revolution hosted by DJ Strong and DJ Warrior with blending duties going to DJ Qwess. He touches on an array of issues from education, street life and partying to playing up cynicism and more. He is being labeled the Westcoast "Neo-conscience/street rapper" coming from the shadows of Kanye and Common. Press play and let perfection flow.

By Glenny Cruz
Staff Writer, Mixtapekings.com

Not only do they have some of the biggest artists developing their own drink (like 50 cent and the Formula 50), but their energy drink works! It doesn't give you wings, but it gives you a healthy boost.

By Glenny Cruz
Staff Writer, Mixtapekings.com

The streets are talking, but the Dipset members aren't. It seems that the Dipset's front men, Jim Jones and Cam'ron had a fallout. Jim Jones, in light of the Cam'ron versus 50 Cent beef, defended his "brother from another mother" and claimed the love between Cam and Jim Jones is an eternal brotherhood. However, recently Jim Jones admitted that the fallout between the two men has resulted in the two no longer speaking in over a year.

Jim Jones said to Hot 97's Miss Info:

"Me and Cam'ron haven't spoken to each other in a year ... I kept quiet out of loyalty, I felt like if we can't be friends then at least we can do business together ... But now I can't be next to you ... I'm through with being in hot water because of you ... We still the Diplomats. We worked too hard to achieve our own success and now we're gonna do something new."

Diplomats VP of A&R Duke Da God appeared on DJ Green Lantern's Monday night Sirius satellite show on May 7th, alongside camp members, Freekey Zeeky and 40 Cal and reassured listeners that the rumors aren't true. "Don't believe the hype, don't believe everything you hear," they said, denying the turmoil in the Dipset crew.

By Glenny Cruz
Staff Writer, Mixtapekings.com

Creativity is a luxury that a lot of people can't attain. We're not pointing any fingers here, but we are wondering: Who's biting off of whom?

Here's the scoop: DJ Drama, the famed southern DJ, affiliated with T.I and the Gangsta Grillz Mixtapes has to change the name that made him recognizable. The reason being is because the other DJ Drama, a local DJ from Chicago actually owns the rights to the name. DJ Drama (not the Chicago-based one) told MTV, "I'll probably change my name to Dram or Dramatic and just keep it moving. The people know who the real DJ Drama is though."

Ouch!

By Ronelle Levy
Staff Writer, Mixtapekings.com

Whoo Kid blasted his way onto the music scene years ago. He has become a staple in the music game, starting out from scratch and having nothing to building a personal empire. Overcoming many obstacles in his path such as doubters and mainstream competition he kept his eyes on the prize and persevered proving everyone wrong. He brought something different to the game and it gave him an edge on the competition.

Creating original songs with the artists instead of using the same songs as other DJ's became his M.O. and claim to fame. Whoo Kid has helped promote artists such as 50 Cent and other G-Unit members before their albums came out. Spinning for artists as well as political leaders and Royalty took Whoo Kid to another level in the game.

With over 60 Mixtapes under his belt and going strong, he has other business endeavors underway. Launching his own baby Shadyville , Sirius' Shade 45 Channel , Monday nights on Hot 97, up and coming POW Magazine & POW Films and the Whoo Kid Sada Pop Tour,( where Whoo Kid performed in clubs across the UK), and the aspirations to do possible TV and film, his success is limitless. Whoo Kid is definitely fit to be a MIXTAPEKING!

By Isabel Arreaga
Staff Writer, Mixtapekings.com

Two things before discussing The Evil Genius - DJ Green Lantern; first lets analyze the names: Green Lantern, who most of you are familiar with through the DC comic book character who debuts in 1940. So what's the deal with this guy; well, the Green Lantern hales as one of the last few Guardians of the Universe. Bestowed to him was a "power ring" which gives him utter control over the physical world (or in this case: the mixtape world). Working alongside him is the Green Lantern Corps. (a.k.a. Team Invasion) made up of a team of intergalactic policing force (or DJ's), that makes sure everything is going the way it should when Green Lantern is too busy (with his DJ/producing gigs).

The Evil Genius is a concept introduced by the French philosopher Rene Descartes, where he theorizes the existence of such evil presenting itself "as clever and deceitful as he is powerful, (he) who has directed his entire effort to misleading me". It is said that this evil genius can create a complete illusion of one's exterior reality (in this case, through the hip hop mixtape game), making you believe in something that in reality does not exist (competition), so essentially you're so busy trying to figure out his evil genius, that it drives you crazy and knock you off you game which allows him to take over the world...of mixtapes.

Since the early 90's Green lantern got by through DJ'ing gigs but by 95' he began dropping mixtapes where he focused on revolutionizing the creative side of these "for promo use only" treasures, centering on the production aspect of a mixtape. By 2002 DJ Green Lantern became the official Shady Records DJ. During his time there he unleashed the Invasion series (Shady Invasion, Invasion Part II/Conspiracy Theory, Invasion Part Three (Countdown to Armageddon)) which were backed by the Shady label, Invasion Part three branching into the Armageddon series(Countdown To Armageddon Part 2 (Back To The Lab).

Lantern has received several accolades over the years including the Justo Mixtape Award for his Vlad, Dirty Harry collaboration on 2Pac Rap Phenomenon II along with all his exclusively produced tracks known as the "Green Remixes" ranging from artists such as Nas, Tupac, DMX, Juelz Santana, Big Pun, Styles P, Foxy Brown, D-Block (for "2 guns Up" which was later turned in to an entire mixtape) and so on and so forth.

In 2005, Green Lantern created Team Invasion, a team of DJ's brought together to drop Green Lantern approved mixtapes. Another highlight for this evil genius was his partnership with New York City's most prominent hip hop station Hot 97, where Green gets two hours "In The Lab" (which he also dedicated to a mixtape - The Best of the Lab) to do his thing, introducing underground artists, blending freestyles and delivering accappella's with instrumental tracks. You can also find DJ green Lantern on Sirius - Hip Hop Nation: The Invasion, a weekly program running three hours where he drops all his exclusive mixes with his Team invasion crew (oh, almost forgot to mention his mixtape dedicated to his show - Sirius Invasion) and feature guests, respectively.

With all this, twenty-eight mixtapes to boot and the sixteen from the Team Invasion crew, DJ gigs around the world, hosting his various radio shows, constantly creating his geniusly crafted mixtapes, it's no wonder Green Lantern has earned his place as a guardian of the mixtape universe, with genius to spare.

By Ronelle Levy
Staff Writer, Mixtapekings.com

Estudio 201, brings you a taste of the next generation of Latin Superstars with their new Cuervoton Vs. Pitbull Vol.3 mixtape. Cuervoton, is a talent search that showcases and helps promote Latinos in the music industry. Unsigned artists submit demos for review and compete for a major record deal with Def Jam Records' Roc La Familia and a chance to showcase their talents to the masses. The mixtape features tracks from the winners of the Cuervoton competition along with DJ Spin One and other established artists. This year's Cuervoton is hosted by Pitbull and Chingo Bling,rising star Malverde, and sponsored by Jose Cuervo, Malverde, BMI, Gibson, Mixtapekings, Roc La Familia, Atlantic Records and LIFEbeat, a music industry AIDS charity organization. The contest provides a once in a lifetime opportunity for talented Latino artists that may never have had a chance at the spotlight or being heard the chance to make their dreams a reality. Thanks to all those who collaborated on the Cuervoton mixtape, Latino artists will have a more promising future in the industry.

By Isabel Arreaga
Staff Writer, Mixtapekings.com

With his hands on the turn tables since the 90's, DJ Butta, a Miami native, now resident of Queens, NY with his own company Doublecross Entertainment, has been a force to recon with since collaborating with Def Jam and Epic records, dropping mixtapes for up and coming artists. Butta, most notably known for his Makiveli series 7 Deadly Sins,has been nominated for the Justo Mixtape Qwards, traveled, honed his craft as a producer, been on the radio, toured with Dead Prez as their official DJ and the list goes on. Butta's newest release - The Wake Up, is brought to you by his own Doublecross Entertainment, along with Mixtapekings.com, The Arkitechs and Azzure Denim/Indigo Red. This project features Talib Kweli as host and is loaded with genuine Hip Hop tracks true to its form. You will definitely hit repeat and love it. Most impressed by Jean Grey of Black Smith for doing her thing and poppin' of all over this tape. Features Dead Prez. Mos Def, A-Alikes, Immortal Technique, The Roots, Lupe Fiasco, Kidz in the Hall and more.

By Dayana Concepcion
Staff Writer, Mixtapekings.com

I know that song "Never Leave You (Uh Oooh, Uh Oooh) " sounds familiar and I'll tell you why. It was that track from the fair skinned, almost alto voiced but not quite, Puerto Rican Lumidee that came out way back in the Summer of 2003. That song was the hit record of the year that still stands as a massive club anthem and radio shit today. But what happened to Lumidee after that hit record? Is she the unexpected One Hit Wonder? According to Lumidee, she wasn't ready for the world. She states, "I had a single bigger than me. It's like the world heard my demo." To be honest, I didn't think she'd be coming back. Now my ears ring again when I bump into Sean from TVT Records and he hands me the new Lumidee record, "Unexpected." With 276,000 copies already sold in the US alone, "She's like the Wind" featuring Tony Sunshine is next single of the new record taking over the masses. Ok ok, so I might have been wrong in my intuition on this one. But then again, I don't know how much credit we should give Lumidee for the new hit single. "She's like the Wind" was actually a known as the one hit wonder of 1987, when Patrick Swayze wrote it for Dirty Dancing!

By Isabel Arreaga
Staff Writer, Mixtapekings.com

Take two DJ's from opposite coast, Vlad hailing from Oakland, California and Dirty Harry reppin Queens, New York; mix them together and you get one of the finest mixtapes ever created. The Notorious B.I.G.: Rap Phenomenon was released on the anniversary of Bigg's death in 2003. Since then all other attempts to recreate this type of mixtape has fallen short. Why? This was the first of its kind where both DJ's already known their specific niches in their specific areas - Vlad for his "Hot in Here" series and Dirty Harry with his slew of mixtapes named mostly after Clint Eastwood movies that have become classics in there own right. Harry collaborated their talents and crafted a tribute for arguably the greatest MC to ever grace our presence. Mixed together are Biggies lyrics with classic west coast beats as well as the hottest beats from 2003 alongside many of his unreleased tracks, freestyles and interviews blended so well you think the mixes were exclusively crafted for Bigg originally. 50 tracks of greatness doesn't even cover The Notorious one, but its a classic start.

By Dayana Concepcion
Staff Writer, Mixtapekings.com

To the MIXTAPEKINGS family, the union of KRS - One and Marley Marl is history in the making for the music entertainment. KRS One is by far one of the most influential voices in Hip Hop recognized more often than not, as the "The Greatest Live MC of All Time," when performing live. Marley Marl was another powerful figure in music, known for being the pioneer of sampling in hip-hop. It's funny how KRS - One and Marley Marl were bitter enemies back in the day when Hip Hop was real Hip Hop. "Kill That Noise" was one of Marley Marl's productions and one of the biggest diss tracks that ignited the first full scale hip hop battle between Queens and The Bronx. Now these differences are put aside to really keep Hip Hop alive. This album is about refocusing Hip Hop and preserving the original sound of the 80's that KRS - One and Marley Marl know so well. Executive produced by Marley Marl, "Hip Hop Lives" is about unity and reconciliation. It's about that continued movement that MIXTAPEKINGS keeps talking about. Be sure to cop the album, May 22nd on Mixtapekings.com featuring "Kill A Rapper," "All School," and others.

By Glenny Cruz
Staff Writer, Mixtapekings.com

After gaining regional acclaim with his 2005 disc, Son of a Pimp, Mistah F.A.B. became the Bay's hyphy national figure. F.A.B. goes back to his roots and releases his latest indie effort, The Baydestrian. F.A.B documents the life in the O as well as providing music you can dance to.

His album, out May 15th, features other big names, such as Keak Da Sneak, Too Short, Fabo of D4L, Messy Marv and Spice 1.

By Glenny Cruz
Staff Writer, Mixtapekings.com

Marco Polo wants to be remembered for timeless music. Unconcerned by trends in music, Marco Polo manages to keep his passion for the music as the true guideline for his projects. Hailing from Canada, Marco Polo was still heavily influenced by New York hip hop, a true reflection of his music. Don't be misled though; Canada has a booming music scene, but the market is relatively small. And so Marco Polo migrated to New York and forcefully carved out his stomping ground in the New York scene.

Keep an eye out for Port Authority, in stores May 15th.

By Glenny Cruz
Staff Writer, Mixtapekings.com

To finish off the grandiosity of the Mixtapekings.com re-launch and partner Rapmullet.com, the kings of the mixtape industry have instilled the help of hip hop giants.

The likes of Jae Millz, super producer Ron Browz, Dujeous, hosted by Lil Shawn from Shade45 are blessing the re-launch party with their talent.

At Canal Room in New York City, industry professionals and music enthusiasts will mix and mingle all meanwhile supporting the movement.

Click Here for more info and to RSVP Now!

By Ronelle Levy
Staff Writer, Mixtapekings.com

Hitting the box office and the streets are the releases of 28 Weeks Later the movie (sequel to 28 Days Later) and the newest mixtape release from Team invasion, Hood Rules Apply Part 6 (28 Days Later). The horror sequel revisits the world a few months after the disease infested zombies have been eliminated. Like always, just when you think its safe it's not!

Like the movie, Team Invasion and Green Lantern are invading hoods everywhere with hot new collabos featured on this latest compilation mixtape such as Jay Z / Timbaland ; Elephant Man / Wyclef and songs from Kanye, Memphis Bleek, Game, Bone Thugs, Joel Ortiz , Lloyd , and more. The 26 track mixtape includes some hot remixes of "Dope Boy Fresh", "Give it to me" and exclusive freestyles from some of the hottest emcees in the game.